When Humane launched its AI Pin in April 2024, the Bay Area startup promised a revolutionary wearable device poised to replace smartphones. Less than a year later, the dream has crumbled. Humane has announced it will discontinue the AI Pin and all associated services on February 28, 2025, a swift and sobering end to a product that once captured the tech world’s imagination.
Humane’s story began with high hopes. Founded by ex-Apple veterans Bethany Bongiorno and Imran Chaudhri, the company raised over $230 million from eager investors. The AI Pin was marketed as a sleek, voice-activated wearable designed to handle calls, messages, and AI-powered tasks—all without the need for a traditional screen. In theory, it was a leap toward hands-free, intuitive technology.
But while the vision was ambitious, the execution faltered. Early reviews ranged from lukewarm to harsh. “It felt like a solution in search of a problem,” often said tech commentators. “People weren’t convinced they needed a wearable that aimed to replace their phone rather than complement it.” Sales reflected that skepticism: by summer 2024, returns had started to outpace purchases, according to The Verge.
Starting February 28, AI Pins will no longer connect to Humane’s servers, effectively disabling voice commands, cloud-based AI responses, and messaging features. Offline functions like checking battery levels will remain—but with no connectivity, the device loses nearly all practical value.
Customers are urged to download any stored data before the shutdown, as all information will be permanently erased. Humane’s customer support, already stretched thin, will cease operations the same day.
Refund policies offer limited solace. Buyers whose AI Pins shipped on or before November 15, 2024, can request a refund—but only if they do so by February 27. Pre-shipment orders will be automatically canceled and refunded. However, those outside the 90-day window have little recourse beyond recycling the now-defunct gadget through e-waste programs.
Humane’s downfall yet again points to the harsh realities of hardware startups. Despite raising a significant war chest, the company struggled with production issues, user experience complaints, and safety concerns—notably a charging case recall over battery fire risks. In October 2024, Humane dropped the AI Pin’s price from $699 to $499 to spur interest, but it wasn’t enough.
“Hardware is hard,” said Wilson A., a technology market commentator on reddit. “You can have brilliant founders and generous funding, but if the product doesn’t resonate with consumers, it’s an uphill battle.”
Industry data supports this view. According to IDC Research, global wearable sales grew 15% in 2024, yet niche devices like the AI Pin captured less than 2% of the market. “Consumers want wearables that integrate seamlessly with existing ecosystems,” notes a reddit user. “Humane asked users to replace their smartphones—a tall order when phones already do so much so well.”
