Humane Inc.'s AI Pin Faces Safety Recall and Financial Struggles Amid Fierce Market Competition
June 6, 2024
Humane Inc.'s AI Pin launch is under scrutiny due to safety concerns with its Charge Case Accessory, linked to potential fire hazards from faulty third-party battery cells.
Customers who bought the $700 AI Pin in the past month and a half are advised to stop using the accessory immediately.
Humane Inc. is ending its partnership with the current battery supplier and looking for a new vendor.
Despite aiming to ship 100,000 units this year, Humane Inc. has only received around 10,000 orders.
The Charge Case accessory is out of stock, with reviews pointing out battery life and overheating issues.
Humane Inc. is compensating affected customers with two free months of their subscription service.
The company is considering a sale valued between $700 million and $1 billion, with HP as a potential buyer.
Founders' dismissive attitude towards negative feedback and financial challenges, combined with modest sales and significant funding, have hindered the product's success.
A fire sale of remaining inventory might be needed to manage the situation.
Humane AI faces stiff competition in the wearable technology market from companies like Meta and Rabbit R1.
The Rabbit R1 has received positive reviews and praise from Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, though some critics remain skeptical.
The expanding market for AI-powered wearables underscores the difficulties Humane AI is encountering.
Summary based on 27 sources
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Sources

TechCrunch • Jun 5, 2024
Humane urges customers to stop using charging case, citing battery fire concerns | TechCrunch
CNET • Jun 6, 2024
Humane Warns Its AI Pin Charging Case Is a Fire Hazard
The Verge • Jun 6, 2024
Humane is reportedly trying to sell itself to HP for $1 billion
The Verge • Jun 5, 2024
Humane warns AI Pin owners to “immediately” stop using its charging case