Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) technology has been making waves in Silicon Valley, promising exciting new gadgets and gizmos for consumers. However, the reality is that many of these devices have not lived up to the hype, leaving shoppers with limited options this holiday season.
At the CES trade show earlier this year, high-profile startups like Humane and Rabbit showcased products that boasted translation capabilities, question answering abilities, voice memo recording, and alarm setting features. Despite the buzz surrounding these gadgets, reviewers found that they often fell short of expectations, with complaints about slow performance and frequent malfunctions.
One of the main challenges facing GenAI hardware is that current devices are limited by their computing power, requiring more advanced silicon chips and components to deliver better performance. Additionally, these gadgets can be costly for consumers, who may also be unsure about the actual capabilities of these devices.
Companies like Microsoft, Apple, and Lenovo have also introduced new personal computers designed for GenAI tasks, but consumer interest remains low. Many individuals may question the need for more expensive PCs when they can access similar tools on their existing devices.
While GenAI technology has captured the attention of Silicon Valley, widespread adoption is still in its early stages. It may take until 2025 for consumers to see a surge in GenAI computers, smartphones, and other gadgets. Despite the slow progress, there are some GenAI devices available for early adopters.
For instance, Meta has released the second generation of its Ray-Ban smart glasses with new AI features that allow users to take photos, listen to music, and interact with the Meta AI digital assistant. Rabbit offers the r1 device, which can record audio, set timers, and assist with recalling information from past conversations. Bee AI is launching its Bee device, a smartwatch-like gadget that acts as an advanced digital assistant, offering personalized summaries and to-do lists.
As GenAI technology continues to evolve, consumers can expect more innovative products to hit the market in the coming years. While the current landscape may be lacking in must-have gadgets, the future looks promising for those interested in the intersection of artificial intelligence and consumer electronics.
