Apple is rumored to be developing a new wearable AI device the size of its AirTag location tracker, but thicker and packed with more technology.
At a Glance
- Apple could launch an AI-enabled pin with cameras, microphones, a speaker and a physical button.
- The device would pair with iPhones to share photos, videos and audio, potentially powered by Google’s Gemini AI.
- Competitors include Humane’s $699 pin, Memories.ai, Plaud and Looki.
- OpenAI is also working on a small-form AI hardware device.
- Why it matters: Apple’s entry could reshape the wearable AI market, pushing the industry toward more affordable, rapidly iterated gadgets.
Apple’s new wearable AI pin is reported to be the size of its AirTag but slightly thicker. According to a report in The Information, the device would include two cameras, three microphones, a speaker and a physical button. It would likely pair with iPhones, allowing users to access the data it collects-photos, videos and audio-directly from their phones. The pin could also leverage Apple’s partnership with Google’s Gemini AI, enabling on-the-go question-asking or information lookup.
Apple’s Competitive Edge
Apple’s reputation for creating wearables that are both affordable and quick to iterate could give it an advantage. While other companies have experimented with wearable AI-such as Memories.ai, Plaud and Looki-Apple’s track record suggests it can bring a polished product to market faster. The company’s rumored ring and smart glasses projects indicate a broader strategy in the wearable space.
The Humane Experience
A notable competitor was Humane, which launched a $699 AI pin in 2023. The device, designed by former Apple designers Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, failed to gain traction. Eventually, Humane sold the technology behind its pin to HP. This failure underscores the challenge of establishing a new category of personal AI devices.
OpenAI’s Entry
OpenAI is also developing a small-form AI hardware device, reportedly designed by former Apple designer Jony Ive. This move adds another layer of competition for Apple. In April, Ziff Davis-News Of Los Angeles‘s parent company-filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging copyright infringement in training and operating its AI systems.
What It Means for Consumers
If Apple succeeds, consumers could see a more affordable, seamlessly integrated AI companion. The device’s small form factor would make it less obtrusive than current smart glasses or larger wearables. Pairing with the iPhone would also mean a familiar ecosystem for data access and privacy controls.
Key Takeaways
- Apple is reportedly working on an AI-enabled pin the size of an AirTag.
- The device would feature two cameras, three microphones, a speaker and a button, and could use Gemini AI.
- Competitors include Humane’s $699 pin, Memories.ai, Plaud, Looki, and OpenAI’s device by Jony Ive.
- Apple’s history of affordable, iterative wearables could help it dominate the emerging market.
- The lawsuit by Ziff Davis against OpenAI adds legal tension to the race.
While the full specifications remain unconfirmed, the potential for Apple to lead the wearable AI revolution is clear. The company’s ability to integrate hardware, software and AI services could set a new standard for personal assistants on the go.
