Palo Alto, CA – February 20, 2025 – In a move signaling its aggressive push into the AI-driven future, HP Inc. has announced a definitive agreement to acquire significant assets from Humane, the ambitious startup behind the ill-fated AI Pin, for $116 million. This strategic acquisition brings HP a treasure trove of AI capabilities, including Humane’s advanced AI platform CosmOS, a wealth of intellectual property, and a talented team of engineers and innovators.
Humane, founded by former Apple executives Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, burst onto the scene with the promise of revolutionizing human-computer interaction through its screenless, AI-powered wearable, the AI Pin. However, the device, plagued by technical glitches, poor reviews, and a hefty price tag, failed to gain traction, ultimately leading to its discontinuation.
Despite the AI Pin’s demise, Humane’s underlying technology and expertise proved to be valuable assets, catching the eye of tech giant HP. This acquisition allows HP to accelerate its AI initiatives and integrate cutting-edge AI capabilities across its diverse product portfolio, ranging from PCs and printers to conference room solutions.
“This investment will rapidly accelerate our ability to develop a new generation of devices that seamlessly orchestrate AI requests both locally and in the cloud,” said Tuan Tuan, president of technology and innovation at HP. “Humane’s AI platform CosmOS, backed by an incredible group of engineers, will help us create an intelligent ecosystem across all HP devices, from AI PCs to smart printers and connected conference rooms. This will unlock new levels of functionality for our customers and deliver on the promises of AI.”
As part of the acquisition, HP is establishing a new AI innovation lab, HP IQ, which will be spearheaded by the Humane team. This dedicated lab will focus on developing and integrating AI solutions across HP’s product lines, enhancing user experiences and driving innovation in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
“We’re excited to join HP at such a pivotal moment in the industry and help shape the future of intelligent experiences,” said Bongiorno and Chaudhri in a joint statement. “HP’s scale, global reach, and operational excellence, combined with our design-led approach, integration technology, and engineering expertise, will redefine workforce productivity.”
The acquisition of Humane’s assets marks a significant step in HP’s journey to become a leader in the AI-powered computing era. By combining Humane’s AI prowess with its own hardware expertise and market reach, HP is poised to deliver a new generation of intelligent devices and services that will transform the way people work and interact with technology.
Key Highlights of the Acquisition:
- HP acquires Humane’s AI platform CosmOS: This platform will serve as the foundation for HP’s AI integration efforts across its product ecosystem.
- Intellectual property and patents: HP gains access to over 300 patents and patent applications, bolstering its AI technology portfolio.
- Talented team joins HP: Humane’s engineers, architects, and product innovators will form the core of HP’s new AI innovation lab, HP IQ.
- AI Pin discontinued: Humane’s flagship product, the AI Pin, will be discontinued, and existing devices will cease to function by the end of February 2025.
- HP’s AI ambitions: The acquisition underscores HP’s commitment to becoming a leader in the AI-driven computing landscape.
The Rise and Fall of the AI Pin:
Humane’s AI Pin was initially touted as a revolutionary device that would usher in a new era of screenless computing. However, the device faced numerous challenges, including:
- Technical issues: The AI Pin was plagued by technical glitches, including overheating and battery problems.
- Poor reviews: Critics panned the device for its limited functionality, high price tag, and subpar performance.
- Lack of market traction: Despite initial hype, the AI Pin failed to gain widespread adoption, leading to its ultimate demise.
HP’s AI-Powered Future:
Despite the AI Pin’s failure, HP recognizes the immense potential of AI and is committed to integrating it across its product ecosystem. The acquisition of Humane’s assets provides HP with the building blocks to create a new generation of intelligent devices and services that will empower users and transform the way they work.
HP’s vision for the future includes:
- AI-enhanced PCs: PCs that can anticipate user needs, automate tasks, and provide intelligent assistance.
- Smart printers: Printers that can understand documents, optimize workflows, and enhance productivity.
- Connected conference rooms: Conference rooms that facilitate seamless collaboration, automate meeting management, and provide real-time language translation.
By combining its hardware expertise with Humane’s AI capabilities, HP is poised to shape the future of computing and deliver innovative solutions that will redefine the way people interact with technology.
