The world of AI and tech just got a little more intriguing! Meta's acquisition of Limitless, an AI device startup, is a bold move that could shape the future of AI-enabled wearables.
Limitless, formerly known as Rewind, has developed an AI-powered pendant that records conversations. However, with the acquisition, Limitless will cease selling its hardware and focus on supporting existing customers for a year. This means no more subscription fees for customers, who will now enjoy the Unlimited Plan.
But here's where it gets controversial: Limitless' non-pendant software, "Rewind," which recorded desktop activity and made it searchable, will also be discontinued. This move might leave some users wondering about the future of their data and privacy.
Limitless, founded by Brett Bejcek and Dan Siroker, made a bold pivot last year to become an AI device maker. Their Limitless pendant, priced at $99, could be worn like a wireless mic or a necklace. It's one of several AI hardware devices on the market, including the less-popular Friend AI pendant.
According to Limitless, they share Meta's vision of "bringing personal superintelligence to everyone" through AI-enabled wearables. Meta's current focus is on AR/AI glasses, but Limitless' expertise could help enhance their existing products, rather than adding another pendant to the lineup.
The startup hinted at the intense competition in the market, especially from larger players like OpenAI and Meta, who are also developing their own hardware devices. Dan Siroker wrote, "When we started Limitless, AI was a distant dream, and hardware startups were considered unfundable. But today, we're building an inevitable future. We're not alone."
Meta shared their excitement about the acquisition, stating, "Limitless will help accelerate our work on AI-enabled wearables." The tech giant plans to integrate the team into their Reality Labs wearables organization.
For Limitless customers, the company offers data export options or the ability to delete their data within the app. The startup has raised over $33 million in funding from investors like a16z, First Round Capital, and NEA.
This acquisition raises questions about the future of AI hardware and its potential impact on our daily lives. What do you think? Will AI-enabled wearables become the norm, or is this just a passing trend? Share your thoughts in the comments!
