Since the smartphone revolution began about 15 years ago, millions of apps have been created. With the advent of artificial intelligence, a number of companies now want to put an end to this.

AI Pin by Humane

At the end of last year, Humane’s AI Pin was unveiled. This is a type of screenless smartphone powered by AI models from OpenAI and Microsoft. Using the AI ​​Pin, which you wear on your clothes like a brooch, you can take photos, identify objects and display information on the palm of your hand. The AI ​​Pin costs $699 and will be delivered to the first customers this month. Currently, the device is only available in the United States.

Rabbit R1

A few months after announcing the AI ​​Pin, Rabbit’s R1 was unveiled during the CES tech show. This device also doesn’t have apps, but unlike the AI ​​Pin, it does have a screen. The R1 can be controlled with your voice to perform everyday tasks, like ordering food or booking a flight. The screen basically serves to show that everything is going well. The R1 costs $199 and can be ordered in Australia, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Canada, Japan, UK, US and South Korea. The first copies will be delivered to customers this month.

Brain techniques

Some concepts for app-free devices were also shown off during the MWC technology fair in Barcelona at the end of February. Deutsche Telekom showed off an Android phone that creates an interface when you talk to it. This is done based on the company’s generative AI models Brain techniques. According to manufacturers, this smartphone can imitate 4 million different functions of applications, but if you want, you can also just use applications. The name of the device or when it will be released is not yet known.

Phone, friend

The smartphone from the startup A Phone, A Friend was also presented during MWC. The company’s goal is to develop a smartphone that becomes a personal assistant instead of a traditional smartphone. The device should remember what you like to do, write messages for you, summarize the most important news of the day for you, and more. The smartphone will have an e-ink display, but it should be used primarily as a voice assistant. The company has just been founded and doesn’t have a working prototype yet. This device will still be able to access apps, but the idea is that you’ll use them less. The release date or price of the smartphone from A Phone, A Friend is yet to be announced.

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