Hardware startup Humane has been acquired by technology giant HP for $116 million. This acquisition marks the end of sales for Humane’s AI Pin, a device initially marketed as a smartphone alternative.
Effective February 28, 2025, all existing AI Pin devices will cease to function, as they will no longer connect to Humane’s servers. Consequently, features such as calling, messaging, AI assistance, and cloud access will become unavailable. Humane advises Pin owners to promptly transfer essential data to an external device.
The acquisition includes the transfer of Humane’s engineering and product management teams, who will form a new entity within HP known as HP IQ. This lab will focus on developing an AI-powered ecosystem across HP’s product line.
HP also plans to leverage Humane’s CosmOS AI operating system, which has demonstrated compatibility with various platforms, including vehicles, smart speakers, TVs, and smartphones.
Despite Humane’s ambitious initial plans to fetch a much higher acquisition price, the reported sales struggle and negative reviews ultimately led to a lower valuation. However, the acquisition by HP provides a fresh opportunity for the startup’s technology and talent to contribute to the future of AI innovation.
Original source: Read the full article on TechCrunch
