HP has announced that it will acquire key assets from Humane, the startup behind the much-discussed AI Pin wearable, for $116 million (approximately Rs. 1,007 crore). The acquisition deal will include the majority of Humane’s employees, its software platform, and intellectual property. However, it will not encompass the AI Pin device business itself, which will be discontinued, according to an HP spokesperson. This move comes as HP seeks to bolster its artificial intelligence initiatives and integrate AI capabilities across its range of personal computers, printers, and collaborative technologies.
The founders of Humane, Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, both former Apple design and software engineers, will join HP as part of the new division focused on AI integration. Tuan Tran, who leads HP’s AI initiatives, expressed that Chaudhri, Bongiorno, and their team will play a key role in bringing AI into HP’s product offerings. The team’s expertise in design and artificial intelligence will help the tech giant enhance its devices and services, particularly as AI becomes an increasingly important aspect of computing and consumer electronics.
Humane, founded by Chaudhri and Bongiorno, launched its wearable AI Pin in April 2024, presenting it as a revolutionary device aimed at replacing smartphones. The wearable was designed to allow users to interact with AI models and manage communications such as calls and texts through voice commands or gestures. Despite the early hype, the AI Pin faced numerous challenges, including negative reviews, technical glitches, and reports of a significant quality issue that posed a potential fire risk. As a result, the company made the decision to halt sales of the device and discontinue its operations.
In a statement to customers, Humane informed users that it would cease supporting the AI Pin, advising them to sync their devices and download any stored data by February 28. After that date, the existing devices would no longer be able to connect to the company’s servers, leading to the loss of data stored on the device. This marks the end of the AI Pin venture, but the acquisition by HP signals that the company’s core team and innovative AI technology may find a new life within HP’s broader product ecosystem.