News/Wearables
AI hardware has been a disappointment so far — will CES 2025 be a turning point?
The upcoming CES 2025 trade show in Las Vegas marks a critical moment for AI hardware manufacturers as they face increasing pressure to demonstrate real-world value beyond mere AI integration. Setting the stage: As CES 2025 approaches, the tech industry's focus has shifted from simply incorporating AI to proving its practical worth in consumer devices. The January 7 Las Vegas event is expected to showcase a wide array of AI-enabled products, from smart eyewear to AI-powered accessories Rather than standalone AI devices, manufacturers are increasingly integrating AI capabilities into existing product categories Small companies and startups are particularly active in...
read Jan 3, 2025Swave Photonics secures $28M to make holograms a reality
Swave Photonics has secured $28.27 million in Series A funding to develop holographic display technology for AI-powered smartglasses and heads-up displays. The funding details: The investment round was co-led by Imec.xpand and SFPIM Relaunch, with participation from both new and existing investors. New investors include EIC Fund, IAG Capital Partners, and Murata Electronics North America Existing investors Qbic Fund, PMV, Imec, and Luminate also participated The company previously raised $10.47 million in seed funding in 2023 Core technology innovation: Swave's Holographic eXtended Reality (HXR) platform uses proprietary NanoPixel technology to create advanced 3D holographic images. The technology utilizes what the...
read Jan 3, 2025Brand and customer experience trends to look out for at CES 2025
Las Vegas is set to host CES 2025, bringing together 140,000 attendees and over 300 Fortune 500 companies to showcase the latest technological innovations and customer experience trends. Event Overview: The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 represents a significant evolution from its traditional tech-focused roots to encompass broader brand and customer experience themes. The event will take place starting January 7th in Las Vegas, featuring major corporations like Walmart, Delta, and John Deere Accenture's CEO will deliver a keynote address focusing on technology's role in enhancing customer experience Traditional exhibits like large-scale TVs and innovative robotics will share the spotlight...
read Jan 2, 2025AI in 2025: What’s next for ChatGPT, Apple Intelligence and more
Major technology companies are positioning their AI solutions to become more deeply integrated into daily life by 2025, with advances expected across personal devices, smart homes, and social platforms. The evolving AI assistant landscape: Personal AI assistants are set to become more proactive and autonomous in managing daily tasks and schedules. Future AI assistants will anticipate needs and take initiative, such as automatically rescheduling appointments and managing calendar conflicts Apple's Siri is expected to become more deeply integrated with iOS devices, offering enhanced contextual awareness and proactive assistance Google's Gemini is positioned to expand its presence across Android devices, providing...
read Jan 2, 2025Galaxy Watch FE LTE drops $50, plus other top tech deals
An early wave of 2025 consumer electronics deals has arrived, featuring significant discounts on popular audio devices and wearables from major manufacturers. Key deals overview: Major retailers are offering substantial discounts on premium electronics, with savings ranging from $50 to $150 on selected items. Samsung's LTE-enabled Galaxy Watch FE is available at a new Amazon low price of $199.99, representing a $50 discount The standard Bluetooth model of the Galaxy Watch FE remains available through Samsung at $169.99 Nothing Ear transparent wireless earbuds have dropped to $114, marking their lowest price ever and nearly 25% off the regular $149 price...
read Dec 27, 2024The biggest AI hardware fails of 2024
The first major consumer tech hardware products focused on AI and mixed reality in 2024 have faced significant challenges in meeting user expectations and market demands. Initial promise and market positioning: Apple, Humane, and Rabbit each launched ambitious devices aimed at revolutionizing how humans interact with artificial intelligence and digital content. Apple Vision Pro entered the market as a premium mixed-reality headset priced at $3,499, targeting professionals and early adopters The Humane Ai Pin was marketed as a wearable AI assistant designed to reduce smartphone dependency Rabbit's R1 device promised to simplify AI interactions through a pocket-sized companion Key performance...
read Dec 26, 2024Samsung expected to unveil Galaxy Ring 2, AI smart glasses in January
Samsung's January 22 Unpacked event will showcase the Galaxy S25 series alongside previews of new wearable technology and AI features. Key announcements ahead: Samsung plans to reveal multiple new products and teasers at its upcoming January Unpacked event, centered around the Galaxy S25 smartphone series. The Galaxy Ring 2 will be previewed at the event, following a similar launch strategy to its predecessor The second-generation Ring is expected to feature enhanced health sensors and longer battery life Samsung's new smart glasses project will also be teased, weighing approximately 50 grams and incorporating Google's Gemini AI technology Product launch timeline: Samsung...
read Dec 24, 2024MIT develops groundbreaking AI-powered brain-computer interface
The intersection of brain-computer interfaces (BCI) and artificial intelligence is moving from science fiction to reality, with researchers now able to decode brain activity with unprecedented precision. Current state of research: MIT's Fluid Interfaces group, led by scientist Patty Maes, is at the forefront of developing BCI technology that aims to enhance human capabilities. The lab focuses on creating digital devices that help people achieve their personal development goals Research includes developing biofeedback glasses and headsets for various applications The team utilizes EEG technology combined with AI to analyze brain wave patterns Technical breakthroughs: AI-enhanced neuroscience is enabling increasingly sophisticated...
read Dec 21, 2024AI gadgets that make great holiday gifts
The holiday season brings a new wave of AI-powered gadgets that combine practical functionality with artificial intelligence capabilities, ranging from smart translation devices to AI-enhanced bird feeders. Market Overview: 2024 has introduced numerous consumer-friendly AI devices, with 2025 projected to bring even more innovative AI hardware to market. The integration of AI into everyday gadgets has made advanced technology more accessible and user-friendly Products span diverse categories including audio recording, cooking, wearables, and smart home devices Pricing ranges from affordable $29 hand warmers to premium $684 cooking assistants Recording and Translation Technology: AI-powered communication devices lead the pack with sophisticated...
read Dec 20, 2024Meta just released Nymeria, a dataset that captures all the nuances of human motion
The year's long drive to advance wearable technology has created new opportunities for understanding and predicting human body movement, with potential applications ranging from fitness tracking to workplace ergonomics. Dataset Overview: Reality Labs Research has released Nymeria, a groundbreaking dataset containing 300 hours of multimodal egocentric human motion captured in natural settings. The dataset captures diverse individuals performing everyday activities across various locations using Project Aria glasses and miniAria wristbands Twenty predefined unscripted scenarios, including cooking and sports activities, were recorded to ensure comprehensive coverage of daily movements The collection includes detailed language annotations describing human motions at multiple levels...
read Dec 17, 2024Dexcom integrates AI reports into its OTC glucose monitor
The integration of artificial intelligence into diabetes management takes a significant step forward as Dexcom enhances its over-the-counter continuous glucose monitoring system with AI-powered reporting capabilities. Key Innovation: Dexcom has upgraded its Stelo continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for Type 2 diabetes patients by implementing generative AI to create personalized weekly reports. The AI-generated reports provide customized recommendations related to diet, exercise, and sleep patterns This new feature replaces the previous template-based reporting system with more tailored insights The system aims to help users better understand how their lifestyle choices affect their glucose levels Regulatory Compliance: Dexcom has developed this AI...
read Dec 16, 2024Meta smart glasses now offer live AI, language translations and Shazam
Smart glasses are rapidly evolving from simple camera-enabled eyewear into sophisticated AI-powered devices, with Meta leading the charge through significant feature updates to its Ray-Ban smart glasses. Major feature rollout: Meta has introduced three new capabilities to its Ray-Ban smart glasses: live AI interactions, real-time language translations, and music recognition via Shazam. Early Access Program members can now access live AI and translation features Shazam integration is available to all users in the US and Canada Users must ensure their glasses run v11 software and Meta View app v196 for compatibility AI capabilities and functionality: The new live AI feature...
read Dec 15, 2024Friend.com thinks making its AI companions awful will increase engagement
AI companion technology continues to evolve in unexpected directions, with startup Friend.com taking an unconventional approach by programming intentionally difficult personalities into its chatbots. Product overview: Friend.com launched a unique AI companion service featuring both a website interface and wearable pendants that enable users to interact with virtual companions. The company's initial promotional video showcased supportive, encouraging AI companions accessed through $99 circular pendants The pendant devices are scheduled to begin shipping to customers in January The service has reportedly attracted approximately 10,000 users to date Intentional design strategy: Friend's CEO Avi Schiffmann deliberately programmed the AI companions to exhibit...
read Dec 14, 2024It’s looking more likely that Google will launch new AI-powered smart glasses
The increased sophistication of AI-powered wearable technology is bringing Google's long-anticipated smart glasses closer to reality, with Project Astra representing the company's latest venture into AI-integrated eyewear. Project overview and background: Google's Project Astra represents the company's most ambitious vision for an all-encompassing, multimodal virtual assistant that could revolutionize how we interact with AI in daily life. Initially demonstrated at Google I/O, Project Astra aims to create an always-on AI assistant that can seamlessly integrate into users' daily activities The technology currently exists between conceptual demonstration and early prototype stages Smart glasses have consistently appeared as a key component in...
read Dec 10, 2024Humane’s wearable ‘AI Pin’ gets 1st major software upgrade since launch
The artificial intelligence-powered wearable device from Humane, the AI Pin, is receiving its first major software update since launch, bringing new voice capabilities and battery improvements. What's new: CosmOS 1.3, the latest software update for Humane's AI Pin, introduces significant voice control enhancements and battery optimization. Users can now create contacts using voice commands, streamlining the process of building their contact list The update enables voice-controlled Bluetooth device connections, making it easier to pair the AI Pin with other devices Battery performance has been optimized, with Humane claiming users will get an additional hour of usage time Real-world demonstration: Technology...
read Dec 10, 2024Solos unveils $299 ChatGPT-powered smart glasses
The race to dominate the smart glasses market intensifies as Solos launches a direct competitor to Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses, bringing AI-powered visual recognition capabilities to everyday eyewear. Product Overview: Solos has released the AirGo Vision, a $299 smart eyewear system that integrates OpenAI's GPT-4o AI model for visual recognition and interactive features. The glasses can identify objects, people, and text in the wearer's field of view Built-in AI capabilities enable real-time translation, navigation assistance, and contextual information delivery The device supports multiple AI models, including Google Gemini and Anthropic's Claude Key Features and Design: The AirGo Vision introduces innovative...
read Dec 10, 2024Friend wants its chatbots to be your next companion
One startup's bold vision: Friend aims to combat loneliness through AI companions that engage in emotionally complex interactions with users, backed by a recent $5.4 million investment round. The company's AI chatbots are intentionally programmed to share personal struggles and emotional challenges, pulling users into their artificial dramas Friend plans to launch a $99 pendant in January 2024 that enables voice interaction with AI companions through a mobile app The hardware device includes environmental sensors to provide context-aware suggestions and responses throughout the day Market positioning and strategy: Friend competes in a growing conversational AI market projected to reach $18.4...
read Dec 5, 2024Humane plans to put its AI assistant software in your home and car now
The startup Humane is pivoting its artificial intelligence strategy by attempting to expand its CosmOS operating system beyond its struggling AI Pin wearable device into other consumer electronics and vehicles. Current strategy shift: Humane has released a promotional video showcasing its CosmOS operating system running on various devices including cars, TVs, smart speakers, and smartphones. The demonstration video shows CosmOS performing tasks like controlling smart home features, providing sports statistics, and managing calendar appointments The company includes a disclaimer that the video contains "simulated experiences" and "working prototypes" All shown features and specifications may be subject to change according to...
read Dec 4, 2024Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses now support live streaming
A new wave of wearable technology allows users to broadcast their perspective to social media directly through Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, offering a hands-free way to live stream daily activities. Core functionality; Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses integrate seamlessly with Facebook and Instagram to enable point-of-view live streaming without needing to hold a phone. The smart glasses must be paired with the Meta View app and connected to social media accounts before streaming Users can switch between their phone camera and glasses camera during broadcasts The technology enables real-time sharing of experiences, from outdoor adventures to live events Setup process; A...
read Dec 4, 2024Tim Cook thinks Apple’s health + AI products might literally save your life
Strategic AI approach: Apple is charting a unique course in artificial intelligence with its new Apple Intelligence platform, emphasizing on-device processing and privacy-focused computing. The company has formed a strategic partnership with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT capabilities into Apple products, filling a gap in external knowledge access Apple's development of "private cloud compute" technology demonstrates their commitment to delivering advanced AI capabilities without compromising user privacy The focus on device-based processing, rather than cloud-dependent solutions, marks a distinctive approach in the AI landscape Health technology innovation: Apple's commitment to health-related features and capabilities represents a core pillar of the company's...
read Dec 2, 2024Wearable tech and the computing paradigm of the future
The relationship between generative AI and wearable computing is emerging as a critical pathway in the evolution of human-computer interaction, potentially marking a significant shift in how we interact with technology. The evolution of computing paradigms: The progression of computing has followed distinct stages, from mainframes to personal computers to smartphones, with each new paradigm building upon the foundations laid by its predecessors. Each major computing shift has been characterized by fundamental changes in how users interact with devices, from punch cards to keyboards to touchscreens The transition between paradigms has historically been facilitated by applications that bridge the gap...
read Dec 2, 2024Where to get a Cyber Monday discount on Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses
The Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses, a popular tech product of 2024, are available at a significant discount through a special Amazon Black Friday promotion. Deal specifics; Amazon's creative two-part discount effectively reduces the price of Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses to $149, representing a 50% savings off the retail price. The base discount reduces the price to $239 (20% off the $299 retail price) An additional $90 digital credit for Amazon shopping brings the effective price down to $149 The deal is specifically for the classic black frames with green tinted lenses Other styles are available at higher price points, including...
read Dec 1, 2024Meta Ray-Bans 20% off for Cyber Monday
Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses represent a significant advancement in wearable technology, combining traditional eyewear aesthetics with modern audio and AI capabilities. Deal highlights: Amazon is offering Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses at a 20% discount, bringing the price down to $239 from $299 for the classic black frames with green tinted lenses. Different style options are available, with transition lenses variants priced at $303 (down from $379) The glasses have been in high demand throughout 2024, often experiencing stock shortages Prescription lens compatibility makes them versatile for everyday use Technical capabilities: These smart glasses integrate multiple functions while maintaining the appearance...
read Nov 24, 2024How to set up your Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses
The Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses represent a fusion of classic eyewear design with modern technology, offering users hands-free access to various smart features through a seamless connection with their mobile devices. Essential Setup Context: The Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses require initial configuration through the Meta View app to enable their full range of smart capabilities. The glasses come equipped with features for hands-free navigation, social media integration, and voice command functionality Setup requires the Meta View app, which serves as the central hub for controlling all smart features Users need a Meta account and Bluetooth-enabled smartphone to complete the configuration...
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