In a surprising move, HP has announced that it is acquiring key artificial intelligence capabilities from Humane for $116 million.
The acquisition will include Humane’s AI-powered platform, Cosmos, as well as a range of intellectual property and over 300 patents. However, the deal also marks the end of Humane’s much-hyped AI Pin, a wearable device that failed to live up to expectations.
Humane to Stop Selling AI Pin: What Does This Mean for Users?
Humane revealed today that it will cease selling its AI Pin and will shut down the device’s servers on February 28, 2025. For those who have already purchased an AI Pin, the device will continue to function until 3 PM ET on the shutdown date. After that, all cloud-based features—including calling, messaging, AI queries, and cloud access—will be unavailable.
According to Humane’s official support document, users are advised to download any pictures, videos, or notes stored on their AI Pins before February 28, as these will be permanently deleted after the shutdown. While offline features like battery status will remain functional, features requiring cloud connectivity, such as voice interactions and AI responses, will be disabled.
Refund Process and Other User Impacts
For those who purchased an AI Pin, Humane is offering refunds within the 90-day return window from the device’s original shipment date. Users who have paid for a subscription beyond February 28, 2025, will receive a prorated refund.
Additionally, anyone waiting for a replacement charging case, following a previous recall, will automatically be refunded the portion of the original purchase price allocated to the case.
Despite the abrupt end to the AI Pin’s lifecycle, Humane is ensuring a smooth transition for users within the given timelines.
HP’s Acquisition of Humane’s AI Capabilities: A New Chapter
Along with the closure of the AI Pin, Humane is transferring its cutting-edge AI platform, Cosmos, and its technical expertise to HP. This includes Humane’s talent pool, as well as its intellectual property portfolio, which includes over 300 patents and patent applications.
This acquisition is part of HP’s broader strategy to integrate artificial intelligence into its personal computers, printers, and connected conference rooms.
Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, the founders of Humane, will join HP and lead a new division focused on AI innovation. This acquisition signals HP’s commitment to staying at the forefront of AI development, enhancing the company’s products with smarter, more personalized capabilities.
The AI Pin: A Brief, Controversial Journey
The AI Pin was launched with much fanfare in 2024, after Humane’s impressive TED demo. However, the device quickly received scathing reviews from tech experts. The Verge’s David Pierce described it as a failure, stating that “it just doesn’t work.”
Meanwhile, YouTube tech reviewer MKBHD called it “the worst product I’ve ever reviewed.” Despite the high expectations, the AI Pin struggled to deliver on its promises, particularly when it came to user experience and performance.
Now, with the shutdown of the AI Pin, it’s clear that Humane’s ambitious experiment in wearable AI has come to an end. While the company’s innovative platform will continue to influence HP’s future products, the AI Pin will likely be remembered as a cautionary tale in the world of consumer technology.
What Does This Mean for the Future of AI Wearables?
The failure of Humane’s AI Pin raises important questions about the future of wearable AI devices. While companies like Apple, Google, and Samsung continue to push forward with wearable tech like smartwatches and AR glasses, the AI Pin’s demise suggests that creating a seamless and reliable AI-powered wearable experience is no easy task. The challenge lies in integrating complex AI functionalities into a small, user-friendly device that people will actually want to wear.
As HP incorporates Humane’s AI capabilities into its own product lineup, it will be interesting to see how AI integration evolves in traditional tech categories like personal computers and printers. Could AI-driven innovations in these products become the next big trend? Or will wearable AI remain a niche market?
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Conclusion: The End of an Era for the AI Pin, but a New Beginning for HP
While the AI Pin’s journey has been short-lived, its shutdown marks a pivotal moment in the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. HP’s acquisition of Humane’s AI assets signals a major shift in how AI will be integrated into everyday technology. Whether this acquisition leads to a new wave of innovative products or merely bolsters HP’s existing offerings remains to be seen.
Have you ever used an AI Pin or considered investing in wearable AI? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
