HP Acquires Humane AI Assets for $116 Million

The ethical artificial intelligence project, Humane AI Pin, has officially ceased operations. HP has invested $116 million to acquire the assets of this now-defunct company.

HP Acquires Part of Humane AI Pin

In the bustling world of artificial intelligence, big news has emerged: computing giant HP has purchased a segment of Humane AI Pin in a deal valued at $116 million, concluding a highly anticipated saga in the industry.

Uncertain Future for AI Pin

The flagship product of Humane, the AI Pin, an innovative personal computing device using artificial intelligence, will be discontinued from February 28. Humane encourages AI Pin owners to download their photos, videos, and notes before this date. Refunds will be offered only to those who bought the AI Pin within the original 90-day return window.

New AI Division at HP

Humane founders Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno will lead a new AI division at HP, focusing on integrating AI into HP’s PCs, printers, and other devices. Several members of Humane’s current team will join this new division.

Tuan Tran, head of AI initiatives at HP, told Bloomberg: “There will be a time and place for pure AI devices, but AI will feature in all our devices – this is how we can help our business customers be more productive.”

A Turbulent History

Founded in 2018, Humane introduced its AI Pin in November 2023 at the Mobile World Congress. Despite initially enthusiastic reception, the device faced nearly universal criticism post-launch in April. By May, the founders were already seeking to sell the company, hoping for a valuation between $750 million and $1 billion. In June, it was revealed that the device’s charging case had defective battery cells that could catch fire.

Despite a challenging journey, the Humane team has secured a fresh start by joining HP, where they will continue to focus on the integration of artificial intelligence into the company’s products.