In a critical update, Humane, the innovative startup renowned for its AI Pin, has issued a warning to its users about a potential fire hazard associated with the AI Pin’s charging case. This case, vital for powering the AI wearable on the go, has come under scrutiny after the discovery of a significant battery quality issue. Humane has initiated an urgent inquiry following a report of charging problems, marking a setback for the gadget released earlier this year. “After receiving a single allegation of charging issues, we discovered a quality issue with the battery within the case,” a spokesperson from Humane stated, emphasizing the potential risks involved.
Organizational Changes and Product Challenges
Ahead of its AI Pin’s release, Company also announced a reduction of 4% in its workforce, signaling a major organizational shift. This news comes as the AI Pin, priced at $699, faces criticism over its user interface and limited functionalities, despite the high expectations set by its groundbreaking technology. The AI Pin’s charging case, reminiscent of an AirPods case and sold separately for $149, is now listed as “out of stock” on the company’s website, complicating matters further for the startup.
🚨 Urgent Safety Recall 🚨
Humane AI Pin owners warned to STOP using the Charge Case accessory immediately due to fire hazard concerns. https://t.co/Mj9Ct8hGWH#Humane #AIPin #Recall #BatterySafety #TechNews #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip pic.twitter.com/0yKcusbmj3
— OneCoolTip (@OneCoolTip) June 6, 2024
Humane Addresses Battery Concerns in AI Pin
Company’s investigation into the battery issue revealed that the supplier failed to meet the company’s stringent quality standards, leading to potential fire safety risks. “Our research indicated that some battery cells from the supplier might pose a fire safety concern,” the company explained. In response, Humane has terminated its relationship with the current battery supplier and is in the process of securing a new vendor to uphold its commitment to quality and safety.
Despite these challenges, Humane reassures customers that they can continue using the home charging port provided with the AI Pin. The company is exploring solutions and timelines for replacing the affected charging cases and has offered AI Pin owners two free months of the necessary monthly subscription as a goodwill gesture.
Sale Prospects and Future Endeavors
Amidst these operational hurdles, Humane has been in the headlines for another reason—a potential sale. The company, valued between $750 million and $1 billion, is exploring sale options. Founded in 2018 by former Apple Inc. veterans Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, Humane initially sought to rival the smartphone market with its AI-driven devices. To date, Humane has raised $230 million from notable investors, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, underlining the high stakes involved in its venture.
The AI Pin: A Tool for Enhanced Interaction
Despite the setbacks, the AI Pin is designed to seamlessly integrate into daily routines, enhancing interactions with the surrounding environment. It offers a variety of engagement methods—including voice commands, touchpad interactions, gestures, and a Laser Ink Display projected onto the user’s hand. This innovative approach aims to make the AI Pin a discreet yet powerful companion in the evolving landscape of wearable technology.
As Humane navigates through these challenges, the tech community and consumers alike are keenly watching how the company will address these critical issues while maintaining its vision of redefining connectivity through artificial intelligence.
