Humane AI Pin Shutdown: HP Acquires Assets, Technology & Team for $116M
19th February 2025, Kathmandu
Humane, the hardware startup behind the AI Pin, has announced that it will stop selling the device and shut down its operations after a $116 million acquisition by HP.
Humane AI Pin Shutdown
The company revealed that the AI Pin will no longer function after February 28, 2025, and will lose all connectivity to Humane’s servers, rendering it useless for most features. The news marks a sudden end to the startup’s ambitious attempt to create an alternative to smartphones.
Immediate Action Required for AI Pin Owners
Humane has advised all customers who purchased the AI Pin to transfer their data immediately. Once February 28, 2025, arrives, the devices will be unable to make calls, send messages, or use any AI-related functions. The company is also discontinuing its customer support for the device, leaving customers without any assistance. While those who bought the Pin in the past 90 days can claim a refund, earlier buyers will not be eligible for any compensation. Humane is advising owners to dispose of the device through an e-waste program.
HP’s Acquisition of Humane’s Assets
HP has acquired most of Humane’s assets, including its technology and engineering team, for $116 million. The acquisition also includes the CosmOS AI operating system, which could be integrated into HP’s range of products, such as computers and printers. HP plans to launch a new AI-focused division, HP IQ, led by Humane’s co-founders, Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno. The move aligns with HP’s strategy to expand its AI presence across its product lines.
Challenges Lead to AI Pin’s Demise
Despite raising over $230 million in funding and a promising product launch, Humane’s AI Pin struggled in the market. Early reviews were largely negative, and technical problems with the device quickly surfaced. Customers reported issues with the charging case, which was later recalled due to battery fire concerns. Sales of the AI Pin faltered, and returns eventually exceeded sales numbers. These setbacks forced the company to slash the price by $200 last year. Humane’s dream of replacing smartphones with the AI Pin has ended abruptly, leaving HP to take over its technological assets.
A New Direction for Humane’s Founders
As part of the acquisition, Chaudhri and Bongiorno will now lead HP’s new AI division, HP IQ. The team will focus on advancing AI innovation across HP’s existing products. While the AI Pin may be gone, the technology behind it will live on through HP’s future projects. HP’s acquisition signifies the end of Humane’s attempt to revolutionize personal tech but opens a new chapter in AI development for HP.
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