Jesse Lyu, CEO and founder of AI startup Rabbit, has unveiled an ambitious $199 AI gadget called the Rabbit R1, aiming to redefine user interaction with apps through its innovative operating system, Rabbit OS. The device, about half the size of an iPhone, features a 2.88-inch touchscreen, rotating camera, and a unique control interface developed in collaboration with design firm Teenage Engineering.
The Rabbit R1, not positioned as a smartphone replacement initially, boasts a 2.3GHz MediaTek processor, 4GB of memory, and 128GB of storage, with a battery life described as lasting “all day.” Impressively light and well-designed, the gadget stands out as a unique accessory.
The Rabbit OS, the device’s operating system, relies on a “Large Action Model” (LAM) rather than a traditional large language model like ChatGPT. Lyu describes Rabbit OS as a universal controller for apps, simplifying user interaction by eliminating the need for multiple app logins. The on-screen interface presents category-based cards for various functionalities, including music control, transportation ordering, video chats, and more.
Rather than relying on developers to integrate with the R1, Rabbit trained its model on how to use existing apps. The LAM, trained by human interaction with apps like Spotify and Uber, enables the R1 to understand and navigate various applications autonomously. Additionally, the device includes a dedicated training mode, allowing users to teach the R1 how to perform specific tasks.
Lyu envisions Rabbit OS as a game-changer, offering a single interface for an array of tasks, similar to Alexa or Google Assistant. The device, available for preorder with shipping starting in March, introduces a novel approach to AI-powered hardware, aiming to simplify user interaction with diverse applications.
However, the ultimate vision for the Rabbit R1 remains somewhat unclear, with Lyu describing it as both a nifty accessory and a potential all-in-one solution for various tasks. While not positioned to replace smartphones entirely, the R1 offers a glimpse into a new era of AI-powered hardware, challenging traditional paradigms of user-device interaction.
The Rabbit R1 is set to enter the market in a landscape witnessing a surge in AI-powered hardware, positioning itself as a multifaceted device that goes beyond typical voice assistant capabilities.
