Humane has reduced the price of its AI Pin from $699 to $499 in an effort to boost sales of the struggling gadget. This price cut comes as the company grapples with disappointing performance since the product’s launch earlier this year.
Details of the New Pricing
The revised starting price of $499 applies to the “eclipse” model, which features a matte black anodized aluminum finish. However, this version does not include an extra battery or charging case. This decision aligns with the company’s earlier warnings to AI Pin owners, indicating that some battery cells from a vendor might pose a fire safety risk, thus advising against using the charge case.
While customers can purchase an extra battery separately for $69, it’s important to note that the AI Pin still requires a $24 monthly wireless subscription for full functionality.
Struggles and Updates
Since its launch, the AI Pin has received poor reviews and struggled to gain traction in the market. Reports indicated that, at one point, daily returns exceeded sales. In response to feedback, Humane has released updates to the device’s CosmOS software to add missing features, including timers, in an attempt to improve user experience.
Additionally, the Humane store offers the polished aluminum models, known as “lunar” and “equinox,” priced at $799 as part of a “complete system.” These models come with an extra battery pack and a charging case but are currently sold out.
Conclusion
The significant price reduction of the AI Pin reflects Humane’s effort to revitalize interest in a product that has struggled since its debut. While the lower price may attract more customers, the absence of essential accessories and the ongoing subscription cost may still pose challenges for potential buyers. As Humane continues to update the device and address user feedback, the future of the AI Pin remains uncertain.