Exploring the Rabbit R1: Can this AI gadget replace your smartphone?
Zoe Kleinman, Technology Editor, spent a few days with the latest AI gadget, the Rabbit R1, to determine if it could eventually replace her smartphone. The Rabbit R1, a portable AI digital assistant, aims to get people off their phones and back into the real world by handling everyday digital tasks.
Millions have engaged with AI-powered chatbots like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, leading tech giants to explore embedding AI tools into hardware. Companies like Microsoft and Apple are incorporating AI into laptops and phones, but Rabbit aims to create a new category of AI gadgets with the R1.
The Rabbit R1, a bright orange box, is priced at £159 with no subscription required. It features a button, a scroll wheel, and a camera that moves from front to back. However, its functionality is limited. It offers no social media, messaging, shopping, health, or banking features, although users can connect to Spotify or Apple Music. The device can also use Midjourney, an AI image generator.
Kleinman tested the R1’s capabilities. It accurately provided the time, weather, directions, and translated conversations. It also answered trivia questions correctly, outperforming Amazon Echo in some areas. However, it struggled with practical tasks like finding nearby coffee shops, often providing outdated or inaccurate information. The R1 also misidentified objects through its camera.
The device’s battery life proved insufficient, and all activities were stored on an account called Rabbithole, inaccessible from the device itself. Additionally, the Rabbit R1 faced accusations of being a glorified Android app, with reports of its technology being installable on Google phones. Rabbit denies these claims, stating their system is bespoke.
There are also allegations that the company behind Rabbit R1 rebranded from a former NFT company without honouring commitments to previous investors. Rabbit responded by saying that over 80% of its current employees joined after this transition, emphasizing the founder’s entrepreneurial history.
Ultimately, Kleinman found the Rabbit R1 fun but not yet practical, noting it didn’t offer capabilities beyond what her smartphone could do, and often did so more slowly. Other reviewers also criticized the device, with Marques Brownlee calling it “barely reviewable.”
Rabbit acknowledges that the R1 is a work in progress. Founder Jesse Lyu stated, “It’s all about survival… I’m happy we’re getting the pushback and doubts now because it’s pushing us to make an ever-improving and better product.”
Despite the unflattering reviews, the attempt to infuse AI into hardware is expected to continue. Smartphone industry expert Ben Wood predicts more devices in this genre over the next 18 months, though he believes smartphones will remain dominant due to their comprehensive functionality and intuitive operation.
Analysis:
Political Impact
The launch of the Rabbit R1 and similar AI gadgets reflects broader technological trends and innovations that could influence future policy and regulation. As AI becomes more integrated into consumer products, governments may need to address issues related to data privacy, security, and ethical use of AI technologies.
Social Reflection
The Rabbit R1’s introduction highlights society’s increasing reliance on AI and digital assistants. It underscores the desire for convenience and efficiency in daily tasks. However, it also raises questions about technology dependency and the potential loss of personal interactions in favour of digital engagement.
Psychological Aspect
The appeal of the Rabbit R1 lies in its promise to simplify life through AI assistance. This taps into the psychological need for control and efficiency. However, the device’s current limitations may lead to frustration rather than the intended ease, demonstrating the challenges of creating seamless AI experiences.
Sociological Angle
The Rabbit R1 represents a shift towards wearable and portable technology, reflecting changing consumer behaviour. The device’s mixed reception also indicates societal expectations for technology to not only innovate but also function reliably and enhance daily life meaningfully.
Fashion Culture
While the Rabbit R1’s design—a bright orange box—may appeal to those seeking unique tech gadgets, its current functionality limits its integration into fashion culture. However, as AI devices evolve, they could become fashionable accessories that blend style with technology.
