Hands-on with the $5000 Wehead ChatGPT-powered AI Assistant: When Technology Disappoints

Too Little, Too Early… The Wehead has a long way to go before it can be taken seriously, on both hardware and software fronts.

As we coursed the floors of the Showstoppers event at CES, my eyes landed on something familiar. I made eye contact (to the best of my ability to make eye contact with a set of virtual eyes) with the $5000 Wehead device, which I had just reported on just mere weeks ago. It sat on a lone table in the corner of the massive ballroom where the event was being held, with a few people basically gathering the courage to talk to it. Obviously, I wanted to really get a sense of what it was like to chat with an AI, but also to see whether this $5000 device was worth the hype. Long story short, the Wehead was a bit of a mess from top to bottom. The hardware lacked the kind of finesse you’d expect from a premium product, and the software failed miserably at processing requests amidst the buzz of all the people around it.

Designer: Wehead

The Wehead was first envisioned as a one-of-a-kind teleconferencing device that could allow you to speak to people via video-chatting apps, but instead of staring at a screen, have you stare at a head that moved and responded to the actions of the person on the other end of the call. Somewhere down the line, the company made its transition to turning it into a ChatGPT-esque assistant that would use AI to answer queries and augment life. The difference between the Wehead and something like ChatGPT, Siri, or Google Assistant? The fact that Wehead actually had a face, which, at least in theory, would add a more immersive, believable aspect to the entire experience.

The problem, however, lay in two broad domains – firstly, the Wehead was a solution in search of a problem. The lack of a facial component to AI may be a problem, but it isn’t a problem that demands a $5000 multi-screen bionic robot. Secondly, even if that were true, the Wehead itself was a rather shoddily assembled device, using four mobile phones, a shotgun mic, and a speaker to give ChatGPT an anthropomorphized touch.

For starters, just a look at the Wehead revealed the fact that its four screens were actually smartphones assembled together into one large Macgyvered solution. The screen element with the Wehead’s eyes actually had a visible front-facing camera cutout. Above it sat an off-brand shotgun microphone that captured vocal input, and below, a small speaker where you’d expect the Wehead’s throat to be. The four screens displayed parts of the Wehead’s face, which emoted and responded to the Wehead talking, listening, and interacting.

However, even though the hardware seemed to be put together by a bunch of engineering students, the Wehead failed to deliver. Its face was perpetually pixelated, which impacted the Wehead’s already dwindling realism. There was a severe mismatch between the audio and the face’s movements, adding further problems to the mix… and finally, the Wehead just couldn’t seem to grasp anything anyone said. Sure, the event was crowded, resulting in a lot of background noise, but the Wehead still managed to fail at the basic questions it grasped. When Wehead got stuck in one of its “I’m sorry, I don’t understand” feedback loops, someone from the company came by to get it to stop responding, but it took them 3 tries to get Wehead to stop. A lot can be attributed to the general event’s background chatter, but that practically set the AI head up for failure, showing its clear lack of being able to isolate audio before processing it.

Here’s the thing though… I do think the Wehead holds great potential. It just needs a LOT of work before it can justify that price tag. For starters, maybe ditch the smartphone displays for something more unique like a curved OLED… and hide the microphone and speaker, so it isn’t that obvious that this was put together using hardware bought at Best Buy. A talking head running ChatGPT sounds impressive, but the illusion sure falls apart when it looks like a college project, and when the Wehead itself can barely pick up anything you say to it.

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Rabbit r1, co-designed with Teenage Engineering, is a cute pocket AI assistant

Before the current craze of ChatGPT, image generators, and AI-powered services, the world was obsessed with personal assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. That fad has died down a bit, though mostly because these voice-controlled disembodied voices have become so common and so ubiquitous in many smart home devices these days. That said, most personal AI assistants can only be accessed either from a stationary device at home, such as a smart speaker or TV or from your smartphone, which means you can’t call on your digital friend when you’re outside and can’t pull your phone out. That’s the problem that the Rabbit r1 aims to solve by putting a smart, AI-powered personal assistant in a cute little gadget that feels like a Tamagotchi made for serious purposes.

Designers: Rabbit x Teenage Engineering

You wouldn’t immediately associate the Rabbit r1 with AI when you first see it. It initially looks like a simple toy with a pixelated rabbit that’s actually just a blocky head with long ears in a square orange device that fits in your hand nicely. That this rabbit head can show some expressions, blink, wink, or even wear headphones further cements its image as a toy, but it’s actually the face, or rather the head, of what may be the cutest AI assistant to grace the market.

The Rabbit r1 is basically a dedicated AI-powered assistant, formally marketed as “your pocket companion,” that makes the usual AI features more accessible by divorcing them from your phone or home speaker. The idea is that you’d simply pull this less conspicuous (if not for its bright orange color) device out of your pocket or bag, push and hold down a button to talk to the rabbit, and then wait for its response both on the screen as well as via audio. Rabbit OS, as the software platform is being called, seems plenty capable and can answer almost any question, and the rotating camera even does image recognition so you can identify viral personalities or get a suggestion on what to cook based on what you have in your fridge.

If the r1’s aesthetic looks familiar, then you might have recognized Teenage Engineering’s design DNA in it. The Swedish company is best known for its distinctive music-creation devices, and it is indeed the creative genius behind this pocket AI device’s equally distinctive design. Suffice it to say, you won’t be embarrassed to be seen in public using this device, especially in places where a smartphone would be even more impolite or impossible.

The Rabbit r1 is designed to be super simple to use, which is why it only has a single push button and an analog scroll wheel, though the screen is, of course, touch-enabled. In addition to the usual queries, Rabbit OS will also be able to connect with the same apps and services as typical AI assistants, though it’s still a work in progress. It seems that the concept and the design have resounded with many people and the initial batch of 10,000 pre-orders for this $199 sold out on the first day. Whether it will be able to deliver on its promise, we’ll have to wait for initial reviews to see, and hear.

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AI-powered cat door stops your feline companion from bringing home dead gifts

Cats are notorious for many things, with curiosity at the top of that list. They can and will pounce on small critters, sometimes with undesirable consequences. If that wasn’t bad enough, cats that have owners have a tendency to bring home the spoils of war, whether for themselves or as a gift to their humans. Either way, those unwanted and unmoving critters are sure to create unhealthy and unsavory circumstances at home, often discovered only after the fact. At CES 2024, a rather curious solution is being presented, utilizing those hot AI powers to stop your cat from entering your abode until they finally let go of their lifeless package.

Designer: Flappie

Flappie wouldn’t be the first smart pet door to grace the market, but it is probably the first to be so laser-focused on a very specific use case. The fact that it needs to only pay attention to cats and a very specific scenario means its designers and developers can also pour resources only into things that matter. In this case, that means it’s only concerned about recognizing cats and whether they have prey in their mouths before entering your house.

Like other smart doors, Flappie has sensors, specifically a camera, facing the outside world. When your cat approaches, it uses AI to identify whether it’s bringing home prey or just some other inanimate object. If it indeed carrying some previously living thing, the smart door will won’t open up and prevent your cat from entering. Only when the cat has figured out that it can’t go in without dropping its payload first will the AI door finally let it have access and resume living in the safety and comfort of its indoor abode.

The idea for this kind of specialized security system is to hopefully train the cat to not bring in dead things (or other things) and drop them off at the door before coming in. It’s not a foolproof method, but one that the designers believe is more effective than manually monitoring the cat. They are confident that the AI has a 90% accuracy in identifying dead prey like mice, birds, and even snakes, and it will only get better as it learns over time.

Flappie also has other functions besides training your cat to be respectful when coming back home. Those same cameras can be used to capture your feline’s precious moments and even share them on social media. You could control it remotely via an app, but there are also manual controls in case things get a little out of hand. The smart door can also be connected to your cat’s chip, presuming it has one, so that it will only let your own cat in and keep curious strangers out.

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Lenovo Unveils Powerful Yoga and IdeaPad Laptops at CES 2024, along with its own Generative AI app

New Year New Gear, as they all say… which holds especially true for tech enthusiasts as CES comes rolling in. Lenovo’s taking this opportunity to announce a series of devices that are set to redefine our interaction with personal technology. The spotlight this year is on the Yoga, Tab, and IdeaPad devices, each a testament to Lenovo’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and user-centric design. With the explosion of AI over the past year, Lenovo’s also shining a light on its own AI offering, the Yoga Creator Zone – a generative AI that comes built into its Yoga-series laptops running Microsoft Windows 11.

Designer: Lenovo

Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i 16-inch Gen 9

Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 14-inch Gen 9

Yoga Series: The Pinnacle of Premium Personal Computing

The Yoga series has long been synonymous with premium quality and cutting-edge technology, and the new additions continue this legacy with flair and function.

  • Yoga Pro 9i (16” 9): This laptop is a fusion of power and elegance. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU makes it a beast for high-end creative tasks, gaming, and AI applications. The PureSight Pro Mini-LED 3.2K screen isn’t just about stunning visuals; it’s about bringing your creative visions to life with impeccable clarity and color accuracy. The six-speaker system, with enhanced bass, transforms your laptop into an auditory theater, ensuring that every note and sound effect is heard with crystal clear precision. It’s not just a laptop; it’s an experience.
  • Yoga 9i 2-in-1 (14” 9): This device redefines versatility. As a 2-in-1, it easily switches between a high-performance laptop and a dynamic tablet, adapting to your needs on the fly. The PureSight OLED 2.8K screen offers visuals that are as vivid as they are smooth, perfect for professional-grade design work or enjoying your favorite media. Coupled with the rotating soundbar featuring Bowers & Wilkins speakers, the audio is just as immersive as the display. Add in the Lenovo Smart Pen, and you have a tool that’s ready for whatever creative task you throw at it.
  • Yoga Slim 7i: This model is the epitome of sleek, portable computing. It’s designed for those who are always on the move, offering a balance between performance and portability. With advanced Intel processors and an optional 4K display, the Slim 7i doesn’t compromise on power or visuals. It’s slim, it’s light, and it’s ready to accompany you wherever your work or creativity takes you.
  • Yoga Pro 7i: This laptop is a balance of performance and aesthetics. It’s built for those who demand top-tier functionality and a design that stands out. With its high-performance processors and stunning display options, the Yoga Pro 7i is ready for everything from intensive work sessions to movie marathons. And with its stylish design, it’s sure to turn heads wherever you go.
  • Yoga Pro 7: Designed for professionals who demand durability and performance, the Yoga Pro 7 comes equipped with features that make multitasking a breeze. Its robust build quality ensures it can handle the rigors of daily use, while its high-performance internals mean it’s ready to tackle any task. It’s a workhorse that doesn’t skimp on style or functionality.
  • Yoga Book 9i: This innovative device pushes the boundaries of what’s possible with a laptop. Featuring a unique dual-screen design, the Yoga Book 9i allows for unparalleled multitasking and creativity. Use it as a traditional laptop, or take advantage of the extra screen real estate for drawing, designing, or extending your workspace. It’s a glimpse into the future of personal computing, offering a new way to work and play.

Lenovo Yoga Book 9i Gen 9

Yoga Creator Zone: AI Features for Lenovo’s Yoga lineup
In a groundbreaking shift, Lenovo’s latest array of Microsoft Windows 11 Yoga laptops come equipped with the Lenovo Yoga Creator Zone, an AI text-to-image software exclusively designed for creators, artists, and anyone eager to leverage the simplicity and privacy of generative AI. Positioned as a catalyst for creativity, the Lenovo Yoga Creator Zone simplifies the process of transforming text descriptions or sketches into vivid imagery, eliminating the need for intricate prompts, codes, or setups. Users can effortlessly input their vision, and the system promptly materializes it into a visual form.

For those using Lenovo Yoga Pro devices with specialized GPUs, including the powerful NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070 Laptop GPU, the Lenovo Yoga Creator Zone introduces an advanced feature called Image Training. This unique Lenovo capability enables users to cultivate a personalized model that resides directly on the device. With each image or series of images fed into the system, the Lenovo Yoga Pro laptop becomes more attuned to the user’s artistic inclinations, generating images that reflect their distinct style and preferences. Whether a user is drawn to the geometric intricacies of cubism or the bold vibrancy of pop art, Image Training ensures their creations are consistently aligned with their tastes, without the need for repetitive specification. The result is a series of stunning creations that are deeply personal, offering a bespoke reflection of the user’s artistic identity.

Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i 14-inch Gen 9

Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i 2-in-1 16-inch Gen 9

Lenovo Tab M11: Entertainment and Education in One

The Lenovo Tab M11 is a testament to Lenovo’s understanding that technology should be accessible and enjoyable. Designed for students and entertainment enthusiasts, the Tab M11 features an 11-inch FHD screen that makes learning and leisure a visual treat. The dual-screen capability and the Lenovo Tab Pen transform it from a reading device to a digital canvas, offering a versatile tool for both productivity and play.

Lenovo Tab M11

IdeaPad Series: Powering Everyday Excellence

The IdeaPad series is where innovation meets the everyday, offering a range of laptops that are as diverse as the users they’re designed for.

  • IdeaPad Slim 5i (15″, 9): The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5i (15”, 9) introduces a new form factor to the IdeaPad family, offering a 15.3-inch 16:10 display that provides more screen real estate for your ideas to roam free. The WUXGA display with 90% AAR and 100%sRGB ensures ultra-vibrant, accurate color reproduction, making every visual more immersive and every detail crisper. With an edge-to-edge keyboard design and two full-function USB Type-C™ ports, it offers extended compatibility with peripherals. The up to 76WHr Polymer battery with Rapid Charge Boost ensures that your creative flow isn’t interrupted by a search for power outlets.
  • IdeaPad 5i 2-in-1: The Lenovo IdeaPad 5 and 5i 2-in-1 convertibles redefine what it means to be versatile. Available in both 16-inch and 14-inch sizes, these devices offer OLED displays that bring every image to life with stunning clarity and color. Whether you’re working in laptop mode or exploring your creativity in tablet mode, the full touch functionality ensures a smooth, intuitive experience.

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5i G9

Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness

Lenovo’s dedication to sustainability can be seen across its entire lineup. The entire Yoga, Tab, and IdeaPad lineup reflects a commitment to a greener tomorrow, with recycled materials and plastic-free packaging being standard across the board.

Pricing and Availability: Innovation Within Reach

With a range of products designed to cater to various needs and budgets, Lenovo ensures that innovation is accessible. Starting April 2024, the Yoga, Tab, and IdeaPad devices will be available, with prices ranging from the affordable Lenovo Tab 11 at $179.99 to the premium Yoga Book 9i at $1999.99.

Lenovo IdeaPad 5i 2-in-1 Gen 9

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Acer Predator and Nitro laptops at CES 2024 level up gaming for everyone

Once upon a time, laptops were simply seen as a way for people to bring their work home or anywhere they might be. These portable computers were made to prioritize productivity and their designs reflected their serious purpose. It was mostly a matter of necessity since laptops of the past could barely hold a candle against their mightier desktop cousins. These days, however, some laptops and notebooks are already being called “desktop replacements” and many models are fulfilling the gamer dream of being able to play and chill anywhere they may be. At CES 2024, Acer is presenting the latest iteration of its gaming laptops under the Predator and Nitro brands, offering upgraded hardware to take mobile PC gaming to the next level, with some help from AI, of course.

Designer: Acer

Acer Predator Helios 18 and 16: Cutting-Edge Experience

Now that technology has finally caught up to user demands, the latest generation of the Acer Predator Helios gaming laptops can finally offer performance without compromises. Powered by the up to an Intel Core i9-14900HX and paired with up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 laptop graphics, these gaming machines promise to give you an edge over the competition, even if you’re just playing by yourself. Advanced thermal solutions, which include 5th-gen AeroBlade fans and liquid thermal grease on the CPU and heat pipes ensure that the system is always running at its best.

A true gaming experience, however, isn’t just limited to raw performance, so Acer has equipped these two new Predator Helios laptops with features that push the envelope of what you can accomplish. Acer’s patented MagKey 3.0 keyboard makes it easy to swap out and customize those essential WASD keys, and MagClick offers swappable mechanical switches to let gamers and users enjoy the satisfying sounds of mechanical keys at every press. RGB lighting effects on the Predator logos, a customizable mini LED backlit keyboard, and the backside Infinity Mirror lighting bar also contribute to setting the right mood for gaming.

The Predator Helios 18 and 16, however, are more than just powerful gaming laptops. They’re also home to the latest AI technologies that optimize performance and take PCs beyond just gaming. Acer’s AI-powered PurifiedVoice and PurifiedView technologies, for example, ensure clear audio and video for meetings as well as streaming. And, of course, there’s also Windows Copilot and the fancy new dedicated Copilot key that gives access to AI assistance in a single press. Whether you’re conquering dungeons or conquering work, the latest Acer Predator Helios 18 and 16 laptops have got all your bases covered.

Availability

  • Acer Predator Helios 18 – March, starting at $1,999.99
  • Acer Predator Helios 16 – January, starting at $1,899.99

Acer Predator Helios Neo 18 and 16: Top-Secret Powerhouse

Even if you’re an avid PC gamer, sometimes you still prefer to be a little bit more discreet. Flashy gaming gear is great for showing off at home but could be a bit too distracting and obnoxious in some spaces like offices. The Acer Predator Helios Neo family offers more or less the same gaming prowess as the rest of the Predator Helios line but wraps it in a more subtle design and, best of all, a more accessible package, making it like a secret agent that’s ready to jump into the arena at the push of a button.

The all-new Predator Helios Neo 18 and 16 laptops are no slouches, powered by up to a newly-optimized Intel Core i9 14900HX processor that’s paired with up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPUs, much like any new gaming laptop this season. That’s enough muscle to satisfy plenty of gamers, including casual and entry-level e-sports players, while leaving enough room for uses outside of play. Acer’s twin AI-powered PurifiedView and PurifiedVoice 2.0, for example, make short work of video meetings, whether it’s for business or for coordinating your team’s attack plan.

It might not have all the fancy RGBs of the pricier Predator Helios models, but it has lighting where it counts the most, thanks to the customizable 4-zone RGB backlit keyboard. Best of all, the Predator Helios Neo’s striking design hides encrypted codes laser-etched on the deep-black anodized covers. This secret message, however, is only available on the non-US models of the Predator Helios Neo 16 but can be found on all Predator Helios Neo 18 laptops.

Availability

  • Acer Predator Helios Neo 18 – March, starting at $1,549.99
  • Acer Predator Helios Neo 16 – March, starting at $1,499.99

Acer Nitro 17: Gaming For Everyone

Some people might not want a dedicated gaming laptop but might still want a mobile computer that can easily switch between work and play without breaking a sweat. Acer’s Nitro laptops have always offered a sensible balance of computing power, gaming capability, and affordable price, and the new Acer Nitro 17 (AN17-72) this year is no different. Bearing a 14th-gen Intel Core i7 processor paired with an NVIDIA RTX 4060 laptop graphics gives it the silicon muscles it needs to breeze through demanding AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Alan Wake 2, much less word processing, Web browsing, and other functions you might need day to day.

Of course, the Nitro 17 is also equipped with the latest AI technologies, like Acer’s PurifiedVoice 2.0, which filters out unwanted ambient noise so only your voice is heard during meetings, or PurifiedView, which automatically frames your face during a video call. Windows Copilot is also present to instantly help you with your work and optimize the system, thanks to a handy Copilot key that’s coming to Windows laptops this year. The Acer Nitro 17 (AN17-72) offers an accessible and reliable PC that you can take anywhere, whether for work, for fun, or for anything in between.

Availability

  • Acer Nitro 17 (AN17-72) – January, starting at $1,249.99

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Acer Aspire and Swift laptops at CES 2024 double down on AI and sustainability

Technology has become ingrained in almost every aspect of our lives, especially the AI revolution that’s gripping all industries, including consumer electronics. While these technologies definitely allow us to enjoy modern comforts and conveniences, they also empower us to do more and create more by giving us the tools to shape this technology-centric world of ours. Documents, videos, images, 3D models, games, and virtual experiences don’t just pop out of thin air and someone has got to do the hard work of creating these digital artifacts. At CES 2024, Acer is revealing its latest fleet of laptops that showcase the latest tech innovations while also pushing for a more conscientious approach to creating the tools that we’ll be using to build a better tomorrow.

Designer: Acer

Acer Swift Go – AI in a Sleek Design

As the name implies, the Acer Swift line has always valued portability through thin and light bodies that allow people to take their work or entertainment wherever they go. Thanks to advancements in this space, that slim design no longer means having limited power. The new Acer Swift Go 14 and 16 are the embodiment of this duality, powered by the latest powerful Intel Core Ultra processors while still being certified with the Intel Evo mark that guarantees its lightweight and compact design.

Everything about the Acer Swift Go screams premium power in a svelte style. The thin, light, and sleek aluminum chassis gives the laptop an elegant flair while offering plenty of flexibility for productivity, like how it can open up to 180 degrees for maximum collaboration. The OceanGlass touchpad feels just as smooth as it looks, and the Acer Swift Go 14 even offers the option to add multi-control lighting so you can directly control media playback by tapping the highlighted icons.

Unsurprisingly, AI plays a critical role in this latest generation of Acer’s lightweight laptop family, particularly via the Acer PurifiedView AI-boosted conferencing features such as Background Blur, Automatic Framing, and Eye Contact. There’s also Acer PurifiedVoice 2.0 that utilizes AI to reduce background noise and ensure crisp and clear voices in every meeting. And to really drive home the AI message, these two are one of the first to have a dedicated Windows Copilot key that enables AI-powered optimizations.

Acer is also announcing the Swift X 14, a similarly AI-empowered laptop that’s designed with the needs of students, designers, and creators in mind. The latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 laptop graphics and a Calman-verified 2.8K OLED screen work together to deliver the power and fidelity that these users need in crafting the content that will fill digital worlds today and tomorrow.

Availability

  • Acer Swift Go 16 – March in North America, starting at $799.99
  • Acer Swift Go 14 – March in North America, starting at $749.99
  • Acer Swift X 14 – February in North America, starting at $1,399.99

Acer Aspire Vero 16 – Technology with a Heart

While the proliferation of laptops does mean that more people can have access to these powerful tools, it also means that the use of plastics, production of material waste, and e-waste output are also on the rise. Fortunately, the world’s biggest PC makers have taken note and are making huge strides in rectifying the situation. Acer’s Vero line of laptops has been carrying the sustainability torch since 2021, and the new Aspire Vero 16 brings its most powerful carbon-neutral AI PC yet.

The eco-chic design isn’t just for show and boasts a chassis made with 60% PCR (Post-Consumer Recyled) materials that significantly reduce its carbon dioxide emissions during production. The smoothened surface is finished with a distinctive Cobblestone gray that uses no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), paint, or additives. Inside, the Acer Aspire Vero 16 uses an OceanGlass trackpad made from recycled ocean-bound plastic, while the entire product is shipped in 100% recycled packaging. The laptop’s stylish body and tactile finish shatter misconceptions of what recycled materials or products would look like, offering a sustainable computer that looks great and works great as well.

The Aspire Vero 16’s power comes from the latest Intel Intel Core Ultra 7 processor whose performance is, of course, optimized with Windows Copilot. The laptop is also equipped with AI-enhanced productivity features, particularly those revolving around improving the video conferencing experience. It delivers enough power to meet user’s everyday computing needs while also helping to protect the planet that we live in.

Those looking for more budget-friendly options can look to the Acer Aspire Go 15 and Aspire Go 14. With an Intel Core i3 N-series processor and an AMD Ryzen 7000 option for the Aspire Go 14, these large laptops offer the basics while keeping the price point down to make it accessible to more people. Despite those factors, these two are still equipped with Windows Copilot and a variety of AI-powered features, allowing users to enjoy greater usability and assistance with a single click of a button.

Availability

  • Acer Aspire Vero 16 – April in North America, starting at $749.99
  • Acer Aspire Go 15 – February in North America, starting at $249.99
  • Acer Aspire Go 14 – March in North America, starting at $249.99 (Intel) and $379.99 (AMD)

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This Bizarre $5000 device gives ChatGPT a face that you can physically talk to

Ever felt weird chatting with Siri or Google Assistant because you know for a fact that they don’t exist? Or even ChatGPT for that matter. The folks at Wehead have a solution. It isn’t a fairly remarkable one, or an affordable one either… but it aims to help humans anthropomorphize AI assistants, because there’s nothing Silicon Valley won’t try solving.

Designed to look like a cyborg bust that sits on your table, the Wehead is a GPT-powered AI assistant that has a face (or something that passes off as one). Multiple displays come together to create the Wehead’s face, which offers a variety of different avatars that you can chat with. The cameras built into the device help the AI ‘see’ you as it makes conversation, and the head moves too, tilting sideways, nodding up and down, and being able to look around. Despite all that advancement, the Wehead feels less like a head and more like a tech-driven caricature. The attempt to humanize AI almost feels like a parody as it exists miles away from the uncanny valley, even though it’s technically impressive on paper. Oh, and it also costs a whopping $5,000 of your American dollars. If you’re scared of a future where AI replaces humans, don’t worry… this one surely won’t.

Designer: Wehead

The Weahad takes a stab at technology’s age-old pursuit of creating ‘companionship’ through AI. It’s designed with an objective of being a friend you can talk to, and who can provide sage advice… although the idea of taking a split-screen body-less oracle head’s advice seriously feels equal parts dystopian and hilarious.

“Wehead GPT is embodied LLM that helps you with brainstorming, decision making and self-reflection. For thinking out loud. At home or office. Any time you need it. On any topic,” says the company behind the device. However, as noble (and honestly remarkable) as that problem statement is, the Wehead’s appearance is what holds it back. Besides, the use of the word ’embodied’ feels rich. You’re constantly reminded that you’re talking to a bunch of oddly angled screens that mimic the shape of a human head. Maybe Wehead should reach out to the folks behind Google’s Project Starline

The announcement of the WeHead GPT Edition brought to mind the unforgettable moment when Tesla unveiled its humanoid robot. Except instead of a sleek, futuristic robot, we got a person in a spandex suit doing the robot dance. It was a masterstroke of trolling, reminding us all that sometimes, the future isn’t as polished as we imagine it to be.

Despite its dystopian vibe, you have to admit there’s something endearingly humorous about the WeHead. It’s like having a pet that doesn’t need feeding or walking, just a good, old-fashioned power outlet and perhaps an existential conversation about its purpose every now and then. It won’t judge you for wearing the same pajamas three days in a row or for talking to a head because, well, it’s a head.

And let’s face it, in a world where we’re increasingly glued to our screens, having a physical head to talk to might just be the quirky solution we didn’t know we needed… although might I remind you that you’ll still be glued to screens with the WeHead. It’s an attempt to bring back the art of conversation, albeit with a partner that’s more circuit board than flesh and blood. The WeHead doesn’t pretend to be your friend; it’s a reminder of the slightly off-kilter future we’re stepping into, one awkward interaction at a time.

So, if you’re longing for a taste of tomorrow, today, and you’ve got a sense of humor about the whole ‘AI taking over the world’ thing, the WeHead GPT Edition might just be for you. Just remember, it’s more than a conversation piece; it’s a conversational piece. Available soon to anyone looking to spice up their chats with a touch of the future’s peculiar flavor, and with 5 grand to spare. Besides, who knows, in a world gone mad, talking to a head might just be the sanest thing you do.

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AI-assisted keyboard streamlines workflow for IT professionals and content creators

If you ever wondered what the next big leap in technology could be, it surely is artificial intelligence. Set to take the world we live in by storm in the coming decade, the future is exciting as we all witness the metamorphosis in our daily routine thanks to this promising evolution.

As a coder or content creator, if you always wanted AI to be by your side to streamline processes, now is a good time to be alive. So, why not a mechanical keyboard that employs AI to your advantage to stay ahead of the curve?

Designer: Junha Kahm

While most of us prefer the Logitech MX Mechanical Keyboard, Corsair K70 RGB Pro, 8Bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard or Keychron Q Series – the Sparrow AI keyboard wants to dethrone them all with functionality so unique, that you’ll want to grab it right away. As the name suggests, the keyboard is tailored for productive workflow out of the box with its advanced AI-assisted features.

The smart keyboard has a semi-transparent display on the front that constantly keeps giving useful inputs and insight about the things you are typing on it. For example, if you are a coder and typing down lines of code and by mistake inputting a wrong code, Sparrow is mindful enough to suggest a rectification. The same is true for content creators who can benefit from the keyboard’s constant learning ability to weed any errors out of the workflow.

If you want to interact with the peripheral, there’s a switch button on the left that allows you to have a conversation right on the keyboard interface rather than going to your preferred AI program for help. When you want to use the traditional keyboard function and turn off any AI assists, it is as simple as toggling off the switch button.

This idea of an AI-assisted keyboard has every reason to make it past the concept and prototype stage. What do you think?

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Dubai’s Burj Al Arab gets Redesigned by 10 Iconic Architects using AI

Before its younger (and taller) sibling stole its thunder, the Burj Al Arab was the jewel of Dubai’s skyline. Sitting on its own private island right beside the Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Al Arab is recognizable by its unique ship-inspired design. The design directly borrows from the sail seen on J-class yachts, standing at a staggering 321 meters tall (that’s just 60m shorter than the Empire State Building in New York). Completed in 1999, the seven-star hotel was designed by Tom Wright of WS Atkins, boasting the world’s tallest atrium which occupies more than half of the building’s height.

As iconic as the Burj Al Arab is, it’s worth wondering what it would look like if designed by other legendary architects. This collection, put together by Imagined Architecture, shows what the boat-shaped hotel would look like in the vision of 10 of the greatest architects of our time. Ranging from the unique Art Noveau styles of Gaudi to the cutting-edge aesthetic of Bjarke Ingels, this collection transforms the Burj Al Arab into a veritable catalog of global architecture movements across a span of roughly 100 years!

Image Credits: Imagined Architecture

1. Frank Gehry

A titan of contemporary architecture, Frank Gehry is lauded for his avant-garde approach that challenges the very fabric of architectural norms. His work is often associated with deconstructivism, characterized by a sculptural technique that involves fragmented and dynamic forms. Gehry’s masterpieces, such as the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, often feature undulating shapes and use unconventional materials that give his structures an almost animate presence.

In this reimagined Burj Al Arab, one can observe the echoes of Gehry’s distinctive style. The building retains its original, sail-like silhouette but is infused with Gehry’s signature element of movement. The facade seems to undulate with a life of its own, giving the impression of a fabric caught in a gentle sea breeze. The asymmetric windows and the disjointed placement of structural elements offer a sense of controlled chaos, a hallmark of Gehry’s design ethos. There’s also a playful use of form in the balconies and the building’s apex that adds to the whimsical, yet sophisticated character typical of a Gehry design.

2. Zaha Hadid

The late Zaha Hadid, a visionary architect known for her radical deconstructivist designs, left an indelible mark on contemporary architecture with her dynamic and innovative approach. Her style was characterized by sweeping fluid forms, often resembling waves or wings, that defy conventional architectural norms. Hadid’s buildings are frequently described as futuristic, emphasizing movement and complexity with an eloquent yet powerful use of curvilinear geometries.

This conceptual rendition of the Burj Al Arab reimagined by Zaha Hadid captures her essence perfectly. The building’s iconic sail-like structure has been transformed into a sinuous form that seems to flow and twist upwards, looking more fluid than the original and harking to the fabric nature of a boat sail. Hadid’s signature style of fluidity is present in the smooth, uninterrupted lines that wrap around the building’s facade, giving the impression of a structure in motion. The blend of glass and white elements pays homage to her frequent use of stark contrasts and reflective surfaces, which create a dynamic interplay with the surrounding environment. This interpretation of the Burj Al Arab retains the original’s bold statement of luxury while infusing it with Hadid’s distinctive futuristic language, suggesting a seamless merge of form and function in a way only she could envision.

3. Le Corbusier

One of the most visionary pioneers of modern architecture, Le Corbusier (born Charles Edouard Jeanneret-Gris) was renowned for his belief in the house as a “machine for living,” favoring functionality and a stark aesthetic that emphasized plain surfaces and the use of materials such as steel and reinforced concrete. His designs often featured an open floor plan, pilotis (supportive columns), horizontal windows, and roof gardens, all elements that signified a break from traditional architectural designs and a step towards a new, modernist ethos.

The image presents a striking interpretation of the Burj Al Arab, as if reimagined through Le Corbusier’s vision. The iconic sail-like structure of the building maintains its sweeping curvature, a bold departure from Le Corbusier’s penchant for rigid geometric forms. However, the influence of Le Corbusier is discernible in the stark white facade, a hallmark of his palette, which speaks to his minimalist approach. This hybrid design could be seen as a nod to both the building’s symbolic status and Le Corbusier’s principles, blending the luxury and symbolism of the Burj Al Arab with the functionalism and simplicity characteristic of Le Corbusier’s work.

4. Oscar Niemeyer

Oscar Niemeyer was a celebrated Brazilian architect who loved to use curves in his designs, often drawing inspiration from the beauty of nature. He was famous for using concrete to create bold, fluid shapes that made his buildings look smooth and organic, much like the curves of a wave or a hill.

Looking at the Burj Al Arab imagined by Niemeyer, we see this love for curves come to life. The building sweeps up into the sky with a graceful bend, like a wave that’s reaching for the clouds. It’s painted in a crisp white, standing out against the blue sky, a favorite approach of Niemeyer to make his designs pop. The curves seem to play with the light and the building almost looks like it’s moving, capturing the essence of the ocean it overlooks. The windows and balconies interrupt the curves just enough to draw your eye without disrupting the overall flow. This version of the Burj Al Arab combines Niemeyer’s vision of blending architecture with nature, creating a structure that’s both a piece of art and a part of the landscape.

5. Walter Gropius

A trailblazer in modern architecture and one of the biggest proponents of the Bauhaus movement, Walter Gropius emphasized simplicity, rationality, and functionality in design. His architectural philosophy was rooted in the absence of ornament, the use of industrial materials, and the integration of technology and art. Gropius’s style often featured clean lines, glass facades, and an aesthetic that underscored the purpose of each building.

In this creative interpretation of the Burj Al Arab as designed by Gropius, we see the hotel’s silhouette simplified. The sail-like form is reimagined with a cleaner, more geometric shape, embodying Gropius’s less-is-more approach. The facade showcases large, unadorned glass panels that invite natural light, a nod to Gropius’s use of transparency to dissolve boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. While the original structure’s exuberance is toned down, this design retains a sense of elegance through its unembellished form and clear lines. It speaks to Gropius’s belief in the beauty of function and the potential of modern materials to redefine luxury. This conceptual Burj Al Arab marries the building’s iconic status with the Bauhaus ideals of simplicity and practical beauty, transforming it into a beacon of modernist design.

6. Frank Lloyd Wright

With over 1000 structures and a 70-year career under his belt, Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy precedes him. Wright was an iconic American architect whose designs were groundbreaking for their integration with the natural environment and their organic architecture philosophy. He believed in designing structures that were in harmony with humanity and their surroundings. Wright’s work often featured strong horizontal lines, overhanging eaves, a central hearth, and a deep connection with the landscape, all meant to promote a sense of calm and organic simplicity.

In the image, the Burj Al Arab reenvisioned by Wright maintains its towering presence but adopts a more pronounced integration with its environment. The building’s profile, while still sleek and soaring, includes Wright’s signature horizontal lines that echo the horizon where sea meets sky. The tiers of the building resemble the stratified layers of earth, a subtle nod to Wright’s practice of drawing inspiration from the land. The terraces and balconies extend outward, reminiscent of Wright’s overhanging eaves, suggesting shelter and openness simultaneously. The organic architecture of Wright is reflected in the building’s gentle curvature, which seems to rise naturally, like a formation shaped by wind and water rather than by humans. This conceptual design marries Wright’s philosophy with modern luxury, offering a unique interpretation of the Burj Al Arab as a serene yet grandiose dwelling place in harmony with the vast seascape.

7. Antoni Gaudi

Renowned Spanish architect, Antoni Gaudi left an indelible mark on the world of architecture through his profound connection to the Catalan Modernisme movement. Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces are celebrated for their vibrant hues, rich textures, and organic designs inspired by the beauty of nature. His creations frequently feature the incorporation of mosaic tiles, intricately twisted iron sculptures, and innovative, sinuous stonework, boldly departing from conventional lines and forms.

The image of the Burj Al Arab reimagined by Gaudí shows a playful and imaginative twist on the iconic structure. The hotel’s sail-like facade is transformed with Gaudí’s distinctive style – it features the whimsical curves and organic motifs that are signature to his work. The incorporation of intricate patterns and textures adds depth and a tactile quality that invites close inspection, a stark contrast to the building’s original smooth facade. The use of white for the exterior is a modern touch that aligns with Gaudí’s love for light and reflection, which often played a significant role in his creations. This conceptual design brings together the elegance of the Burj Al Arab with the fantastical and nature-inspired elements of Gaudí’s work, resulting in a building that could be both a functional hotel and a piece of living art.

8. Tadao Ando

Tadao Ando, a self-taught Japanese architect, is celebrated for his minimalist designs that blend physical and metaphysical elements. His work is distinguished by the creative use of natural light and the incorporation of natural elements into his structures. Ando’s buildings often feature clean lines, large expanses of unadorned concrete walls, and elements of water, which harmonize the structures with their surroundings.

The image illustrates the Burj Al Arab as envisioned by Ando. It reflects his minimalist approach, stripping away the original structure’s ornateness to reveal clean, unembellished surfaces. The stark white facade, a departure from Ando’s characteristic concrete, still conveys his preference for simplicity and geometric clarity. The building’s sweeping form is accentuated by the strategic placement of windows that allow for a play of light and shadow, a tribute to Ando’s mastery of illumination. The result is a unique reinterpretation of the Burj Al Arab that mirrors Ando’s ethos of serene simplicity and thoughtful integration with the environment, culminating in an architectural statement that is both contemplative and bold.

9. Bjarke Ingels

Bjarke Ingels, the founder of BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group), is acclaimed for his architecture that challenges convention with a focus on sustainability and sociability. His notable works, like the Mountain residences in Copenhagen and VIA 57 West in New York, merge functionality with a unique aesthetic that often incorporates elements of nature and futuristic design.

This AI-generated image reinvents the Burj Al Arab through Ingels’ lens, transforming the building into a structure that speaks to modernity and playfulness. The building’s form is mildly undulating, with a lean that suggests movement and a sense of whimsy. This is aligned with Ingels’ preference for architecture that surprises and delights. The façade includes large glass windows, maximizing natural light and offering expansive views, a common feature in Ingels’ designs to bring the outdoors in. The sleek white exterior and clean lines maintain the luxury feel of the original structure but with a modern twist that’s both striking and playful. The overall design captures a balance between the building’s iconic status and the innovative, people-focused approach that Ingels is celebrated for, creating an inviting and sustainable architectural landmark.

10. Jeanne Gang

Jeanne Gang, the founding principal of Studio Gang, is renowned for her innovative approach that interweaves architecture with ecological and social issues. Her work often emphasizes sustainability and community, with projects like Aqua Tower in Chicago showcasing her use of distinctive organic forms and responsive design that creates a dialogue with the environment.

The image envisions the Burj Al Arab with the architectural sensibilities of Jeanne Gang. It embodies a sleek elegance while adopting new, flowing lines that suggest a seamless connection with the surrounding seascape. The building’s form appears more integrated with its environment, reflecting Gang’s commitment to creating structures that enhance their settings. The design emphasizes transparency and light, with broad expanses of glass that echo the striated exteriors of Aqua Tower, allowing for natural light to penetrate the building while offering panoramic views. This reimagined Burj Al Arab maintains the iconic silhouette of the original but introduces a fluidity and grace that speaks to Gang’s architectural ethos of harmonizing with nature.

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This ChatGPT-powered smart notebook can understand and summarize handwritten notes

The pen is mightier than the sword, especially given how it has withstood the test of time, even in our current digital age. But while writing things down by hand has plenty of cited benefits, from psychological to practical, handwritten notes also miss out on a lot of conveniences and potential, especially when it comes time to search through dozens of pages of scribbles. For years, smart notebooks have tried to bridge this gap between analog and digital with some measure of success, but the majority of them stop at turning handwritten notes into digital text you can easily search. This innovative smart notebook, however, upgrades that experience by harnessing the power of AI to make the best out of your scribbles and sketches, turning them into summaries, tasks, appointments, and even translations that will take your productivity to the next level.

Designer: XNote

Click Here to Buy Now: $179 $249 ($70 off). Hurry, only 7/210 left! Raised over $230,000.

AI has been a hot topic for the past years, impressing many while scaring off others. The power that artificial intelligence, machine learning, and neural networks can bring to seemingly ordinary products can really be mind-blowing, especially when you consider the new experiences they enable. ChatGPT, for example, is quite a famous large language model (LLM) application that is being used for things like conversations, searches, and other text-related processing that makes it feel like you’re talking with an actual human person. The XNote smart notebook utilizes this amazing AI to bring together the joy of writing on paper and the convenience of digital technology in an intuitive and seamless way.

The magic of the XNote starts, of course, with pen and paper, specifically a beautiful invisibly coded notebook and a revolutionary smart pen. The notebook itself bears a Moleskine-like design, complete with an elastic band to keep it from opening accidentally. The smart pen looks like it’s simply leaving ink marks on paper, but it’s also detecting invisible patterns so that every stroke is accurately sent and mirrored to the XNote app via Bluetooth in real-time. You don’t have to take pictures of your notes and you don’t even have to wait for your scribbles to sync with the app. You can see your scribbles and drawings recreated inside the app instantly, almost like magic. With a built-in 265mAh rechargeable battery, you can write for 7 to 8 hours of use without having to worry about a forced break.

While other smart notebooks stop there, XNote transforms your ink marks into text, formulas, or diagrams, all kinds of digital objects that can later be searched or even shared with others online. XNote, however, goes beyond handwriting recognition and uses ChatGPT to create contextual recognition, smartly identifying the kind of text so that you can simply ask XNote when you need to look for a note. Can’t remember where you stored a friend’s suggestion for your next binge reading? Just ask in the XNote app to look for the book recommendation you wrote last week. Need a quick recap of the meeting notes you took earlier? Ask XNote to summarize those for you in easy-to-digest pieces. You can even have those notes translated for easier communication beyond geographical boundaries. And since the notes are digitized, you can easily search across different notebooks and access your data on platforms, ensuring that your analog notes remain accessible long after the paper notebooks go away.

XNote not only cares about your notes but also about your privacy as well. It uses advanced end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and top-tier cloud security protocols to ensure no unauthorized person ever lays eyes on your notes. And while the basic package has the core features you need, XNote offers a $9/month ($59/year launch special) Premium subscription that brings all the power of AI to your fingertips, including Smart Task Alerts and AI-driven Tags and Categories. Even better, now that it has reached its $200,000 funding milestone, every backer who has selected either the 1-Year Subscription or the Combo Bundle will be automatically upgraded to a Free Lifetime AI Membership! With the ChatGPT-powered XNote smart notebook, you can employ that powerful AI to do the heavy lifting of making sense of your notes while you continue to enjoy the benefits of writing with pen and paper.

Click Here to Buy Now: $179 $249 ($70 off). Hurry, only 7/210 left! Raised over $230,000.

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