Internal Chaos Erupts Following HP’s Acquisition of Humane AI Pin
In a surprising turn of events, HP has acquired the AI Pin maker Humane for $116 million, a significant drop from the $240 million the startup initially raised in venture capital funding. This acquisition, reported by TechCrunch, has led to a series of internal upheavals and strategic shifts within the company.
The End of Humane’s AI Pin
Humane’s once-promising AI Pin is now officially discontinued. The hardware startup has announced that it will cease sales of its $499 AI Pins, and after February 28, the devices will lose connectivity to Humane’s servers. This means that functionalities such as calling, messaging, AI queries, and cloud access will be disabled. Customers who purchased an AI Pin within the last 90 days are eligible for a refund, leaving early adopters without compensation.
Employee Reallocations and Layoffs
The acquisition has sparked a significant reshuffling of Humane’s workforce. According to internal documents seen by TechCrunch, several employees have been offered positions at HP, with salary increases ranging from 30% to 70%, along with stock options and bonuses. However, not all employees are as fortunate. Those closely associated with the AI Pin development have been notified of job terminations, highlighting the acquisition’s uneven impact on the staff.
Broader Industry Implications
This acquisition is part of a broader trend in the tech industry, where larger companies absorb innovative startups to bolster their AI capabilities. It’s reminiscent of other major tech acquisitions, such as Capcom’s 2025 updates and Samsung’s strategic moves.
The iPhone SE Refresh
In other news, Apple has unveiled the long-awaited iPhone SE refresh, marking the first major update in three years for the budget-friendly smartphone. The new iPhone 16e, equipped with the A18 processor, joins the exclusive lineup of handsets capable of running Apple Intelligence. The device, which now features Face ID and USB-C connectivity, is priced at $599 and is set to ship on February 28.
Conclusion
HP’s acquisition of Humane has undoubtedly caused ripples across the tech landscape. As the dust settles, it will be interesting to see how this move affects HP’s position in the AI market and what it means for the future of wearable technology. For more in-depth analysis and updates, stay tuned to TechCrunch.
This unfolding story invites readers to consider the broader implications of such acquisitions in the tech industry. How do they affect innovation, workforce dynamics, and consumer options? Share your thoughts and stay updated with the latest tech news by following TechCrunch.
