The end of the smartphone era?

After years in development and with much anticipation, Humane announced the sale of its AI Pin, an all-in-one personal computer today that may threaten the very existence of the smartphone that we have come to love (and loathe).

What makes this device truly unique?

There is no screen to tap: Interaction is by voice, touch, and gesture commands. The "screen" is a laser projection directly onto the palm of your hand.

AI drives all interactions: AI powers every function of this device, from searching online and through the user's text messages and journal entries, to purchasing products that the device "sees" with its camera (such as this book).

There are no apps: only "AI experiences" that are summoned by the AI Pin which selects the right AI from the ecosystem of partners for that moment. AI's are streamed on-demand, from the cloud.

While today's launch is exciting, this user-interface has been hotly discussed ever since Imran Chaudhri (cofounder) took to the stage at TED early this year (watch his TedTalk) to present his vision for Humane.

At a starting price of $699 with a $24/month data and voice carrier plan, it's clear that this device is being marketed to smartphone addicts (like myself) who are desperate for a device to help us be more present in our daily lives.

Will this replace the smartphone (unlikely scenario) or the smartwatch? (seems possible) remains to be determined. The biggest takeaway from today's event however is Humane's vision for a future where AI has replaced the app store.

Considerations:

1. Prepare (as though) a voice AI will replace your app - Will AI Agents that are summoned by voice prompts be able to successfully replace a phone full of apps? I'm not so sure, but this is certainly possible. Take a strong look at your current app ecosystem and begin considering how to make this transition.
2. Think about how this changes how you sell - When any item in the world can be identified by camera and purchased through voice with a single tap, there are both threats and opportunities for your business.
3. Re-think the consumer journey - And how you can leverage this device and interface to create a deeper relationship with the consumer while adding value.

Applying a consumer lens is the best way to understand whether or not any new consumer tech, behavior, or trend is worth exploring further. At King Street Ventures, we examine innovation through the lens of our client's consumer.

Learn more about KSV's innovation services.