A new generation of AI-powered wearables and handheld devices is hitting the market, fundamentally changing how we interact with technology. From productivity-focused pendants to emotional support companions, these tools promise to integrate artificial intelligence directly into our routines. Even tech giants like OpenAI are reportedly exploring compact AI hardware to capture this growing demand.
Here are the most notable AI gadgets currently available for those looking to upgrade their daily workflow.
Bee
Bee is a $49.99 pendant designed to be clipped to clothing or worn as a wristband. It functions as an ambient recorder, learning your daily habits and preferences to generate automated notes and reminders. It includes a physical mute button for privacy. Users require a $19 monthly subscription for the iOS companion app, which facilitates direct interaction, provides daily summaries, and offers chronological transcripts of your day. Amazon acquired the startup behind Bee in July.
Friend
Marketed as an “emotional support” companion, the $129 Friend pendant is one of the most polarizing devices in the space. It connects via Bluetooth to your phone and listens continuously, analyzing your tone and mood to provide proactive support—such as sending encouragement before an important meeting. Despite the hype, the brand has faced public scrutiny, including vandalism of its NYC subway ad campaign by critics concerned about surveillance.
Limitless
Formerly known as Rewind, the Limitless pendant is a $99 device built specifically for professionals. It transcribes meetings and calls in real time, turning spoken words into a searchable knowledge base. The basic companion app includes 10 hours of AI features per month, while a $29 monthly “Pro” plan unlocks unlimited transcription and summary capabilities.
Omi
Priced at $89, Omi distinguishes itself by offering two wearing styles: as a traditional necklace or attached to the side of the head using medical tape. The device utilizes ChatGPT to process conversations, allowing it to remember personal context and offer tailored advice, schedule meetings, or manage to-do lists based on your daily interactions.
Plaud’s NotePin
The $159 NotePin is a premium voice recorder designed for high-stakes environments like legal proceedings, journalism, and academic lectures. It can be worn on the wrist or magnetically attached to clothing. It offers 300 free transcription minutes monthly, with an $8.33/month plan expanding that to 1,200 minutes. The company is also currently taking preorders for the $179 Plaud Note Pro.
Rabbit R1
The Rabbit R1 ($199) is a retro-styled handheld device featuring a touchscreen and a rotating camera. Despite a rocky launch, recent software updates have stabilized the device and introduced “Creations,” a feature allowing users to build custom AI tools and games. It is designed to act as a phone-adjacent assistant, handling tasks like flight bookings and food orders without requiring the user to open individual apps.