In a surprising twist that marks the end of an ambitious experiment, Humane announced that it will cease selling its much-hyped AI Pin and sell the majority of its business to HP for $116 million.

Once heralded as a breakthrough device set to revolutionize wearable technology, the AI Pin was introduced amid enormous fanfare. Early teasers at events like TED hinted at a future where everyday interactions were seamlessly augmented by artificial intelligence. However, when the product finally launched in April 2024, reality fell short of the hype.

Critics were quick to express their disappointment. Tech luminary MKBHD described it as “the worst product I’ve ever reviewed.” Even after a price cut in October, the device struggled to gain traction with daily returns outpacing sales.

Humane, which had once positioned the Pin as a revolutionary stepping stone in wearable AI, found itself pivoting midstream. Instead of persisting with a faltering consumer product, the company began reimagining its core software—CosmOS—as a broader operating system for connected devices.

For those who had already purchased the AI Pin, Humane has laid out a clear timeline. According to a support document, while the devices will continue to operate normally until 3 pm ET on February 28, 2025, all cloud-dependent features will be disabled afterward. This means that after the shutdown, functions like calling, messaging, AI queries, and cloud access will cease, though basic offline capabilities, such as battery-level displays, will still work.

Users are strongly encouraged to download any stored data—pictures, videos, and notes—before the cutoff, as all remaining content will be permanently deleted post-shutdown.

Refunds are also on the table, but with conditions. AI Pins that fall within the 90-day return window from their original shipment date will qualify for refunds, provided the request is submitted by February 27, 2025. Additionally, Humane is offering prorated refunds for any subscriptions paid beyond February 28, 2025. Those waiting on a replacement charging case following a recall will receive an automatic refund for that portion of the purchase price.

The acquisition isn’t just about salvaging remnants of a failed product; it’s a strategic move by HP to boost its own AI capabilities. The deal includes Humane’s CosmOS, a trove of more than 300 patents and patent applications, and a transfer of technical talent, including founders Imran Chaudhri and Bethany Bongiorno.

According to a Bloomberg report, HP plans to integrate Humane’s expertise into a new division known as HP IQ. This new team is set to spearhead HP’s AI innovation efforts, focusing on integrating artificial intelligence across HP’s range of personal computers, printers, and connected conference rooms. In an official press release, HP touted HP IQ as “HP’s new AI innovation lab focused on building an intelligent ecosystem across HP’s products and services for the future of work.”

Humane’s journey with the AI Pin is a case study in both the promise and pitfalls of pioneering new technologies. The initial excitement and subsequent disillusionment highlight the challenges faced by companies trying to break new ground. Despite the product’s underwhelming reception, the intellectual property and technological assets born from the project now have a new lease on life under HP’s banner.