Humane, the company behind the AI-powered wearable device AI Pin, has issued an urgent warning to its users to stop using the charging case provided with the device immediately. The alert comes after the discovery of potential fire safety risks associated with the battery cells supplied by a third-party vendor. 

This precautionary measure highlights the company’s commitment to user safety amidst ongoing concerns.

The Warning and Immediate Action

Humane has reached out to AI Pin owners via email, advising them to cease using and charging the Charge Case Accessory due to identified risks. The issue was uncovered following a report of a charging problem that occurred while using a third-party USB-C cable and power source. 

Subsequent investigations revealed a quality issue with the battery cells supplied by the vendor, prompting Humane to disqualify the vendor and seek an alternative supplier.

Humane’s Official Statement

In their communication to customers, Humane stated:

“Out of an abundance of caution, we are reaching out today to ask that you immediately stop using and charging your Charge Case Accessory due to an issue with specific battery cells for the Charge Case Accessory. 

Our investigation determined that the battery supplier was no longer meeting our quality standards and that there is a potential that specific battery cells supplied by this vendor may pose a fire safety risk.”

Affected and Unaffected Components

Humane clarified that the issue is isolated to specific battery cells in the Charge Case Accessory and does not affect the hardware design of the case itself. Notably, this issue does not affect the AI Pin device, its magnetic battery booster(s), or the charging pad.

These components continue to meet the company’s stringent safety standards and are safe for continued use.

Customer Compensation and Future Steps

All impacted customers will receive two free months of Humane’s subscription service in order to lessen the inconvenience this issue has caused. This subscription is essential for utilizing most functionalities of the AI Pin. 

Humane has assured customers that they are working diligently to identify a new battery supplier and will provide further updates once their investigation is complete.

The Context of the Warning

The AI Pin, launched earlier this year, was touted as an innovative wearable device leveraging AI to deliver various functionalities. However, it faced mixed reviews and criticism regarding its practicality and performance. Despite the initial excitement, reviewers pointed out significant shortcomings, including overheating and battery issues.

Humane’s Response to Criticism

Humane has not publicly communicated the battery issue on its website or social media channels, raising questions about transparency. Nevertheless, the company’s proactive approach to directly addressing affected users underscores its commitment to safety.

Industry Reactions

The warning from Humane has garnered attention across the tech industry. Observers have taken note of the company’s prompt action to disqualify the problematic vendor and the measures taken to ensure user safety.

This incident also highlights the challenges tech companies face when relying on third-party suppliers for critical components.

Founders and Company Background

Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno, who were both former Apple employees, founded Humane.

Chaudhri, known for designing the app grid layout on the iPhone, and Bongiorno, a former director of software engineering, brought significant industry experience to their startup. 

The company quickly raised $240 million in funding, attracting high-profile investors like OpenAI’s Sam Altman and Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff.

Future Prospects

Despite the setback, Humane remains focused on its vision of creating innovative AI-powered devices. The company’s ability to address the current issue and maintain customer trust will be crucial for its future success. 

Humane is reportedly seeking a buyer and has brought in the investment bank Tidal Partners to assist with potential sale discussions and new funding rounds.

Humane’s swift response to the battery issue in the AI Pin’s charging case demonstrates its commitment to user safety and product quality. While the company navigates this challenge, it continues to work towards delivering innovative solutions in the wearable tech space. 

As the investigation concludes and updates are provided, AI Pin owners and the broader tech community will be watching closely to see how Humane manages this critical situation.

The information is taken from Yahoo News and The Verge