The landscape of dedicated AI hardware is littered with ambitious projects that failed to gain traction. From the Humane AI Pin to the Friend wearable, consumers have largely rejected standalone AI gadgets in favor of their existing smartphones. However, tech giants Meta and OpenAI are preparing a new assault on the hardware market, betting that a combination of utility and personality—reminiscent of the 1990s Tamagotchi craze—will finally break the curse of the “hardware is hard” mantra.
What happened
At recent industry events, Meta and OpenAI signaled their intentions to move beyond software into physical consumer electronics. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently showcased the “Muse Charm,” a small, pendant-like device equipped with a screen that houses the company’s new Muse AI agent. Described by Zuckerberg as a wearable keychain, the device allows users to interact with a “cuddly” visual representation of AI that can see the world through integrated sensors and communicate via voice.
Simultaneously, OpenAI has introduced “Dots,” a platform featuring customizable, eye-popping visual agents. While OpenAI did not reveal a specific device at its latest DevDay, CEO Sam Altman hinted that these visual characters are likely to inhabit future physical products. The company is currently collaborating with legendary former Apple designer Jony Ive on a hardware project. According to public filings, this highly anticipated device is slated for a release no earlier than February 2027.
Context
The push into hardware comes at a time when the tech industry is grappling with the reality that dedicated AI devices are difficult to sell. Recent attempts like the Humane AI Pin were met with significant technical criticism and consumer skepticism. These devices often struggled with battery life, overheating, and a lack of clear purpose beyond what a smartphone app could provide.
By leaning into a “cute” aesthetic, Meta and OpenAI are attempting to bypass the cold, utilitarian feel of previous gadgets. This shift represents a fundamental change in design philosophy. Instead of positioning these devices as high-end productivity replacements for the iPhone, they are being marketed as digital companions. Meta’s Muse Charm, for instance, is designed to be the fastest way to communicate with an AI agent for those who are not wearing smart glasses, providing a visual interface that is both accessible and engaging.
Why it matters
This pivot suggests that the path to successful AI hardware lies in emotional resonance rather than just raw processing power. If Meta and OpenAI can convince users to form an attachment to a “living” digital agent, they may overcome the friction of carrying an additional device. The inclusion of visual elements—eyes, colors, and animations—transforms the AI from an abstract voice into a tangible presence.
Furthermore, these devices represent a strategic move to capture “ambient” data. By creating hardware that users wear or carry openly, these companies can gain more direct access to a user’s environment than a phone tucked in a pocket can provide. As OpenAI and Meta race to define the post-smartphone era, the success of these “AI Tamagotchis” will determine whether personal AI requires a dedicated physical home or if it will remain forever confined to our existing mobile devices.