HP acquires the smart brooch developer Humane AI Pin for $116 million.

The technology giant HP has announced the acquisition of assets from the startup Humane, including its CosmOS platform, intellectual property, and development team. This deal, valued at $116 million, will enable HP to strengthen its position in the AI sector and create an ecosystem of smart devices.

The founders of Humane are a couple of former members from the design and development team at Apple. Imran Chaudhri spent 20 years at the Cupertino company and led the creation of the iPhone's home screen, while Bethany Bongiorno oversaw the development of iOS and macOS.

According to HP's President of Technology and Innovation, Tuan Tran, the acquisition of Humane will accelerate the development of "a new generation of devices that integrate AI both locally and in the cloud."

As part of the deal, a new division called HP IQ will be established within the company, focusing on integrating AI into HP's product ecosystem—from computers and printers to conference room solutions.

The co-founders of Humane noted that joining HP will allow them to scale their developments and enhance operational efficiency.

"The scale, global presence, and operational expertise of HP, combined with our design-oriented approach, integration technologies, and engineering expertise, will enable us to rethink productivity in the workplace," said Bongiorno and Chaudhri.

The deal does not include the failed Ai Pin project—a "smart" brooch intended as an alternative to smartphones. Ai Pin faced negative reviews and technical issues, including a risk of fire. Following the acquisition, Humane will cease its sales, and from February 28, 2025, the devices will no longer be able to connect to the company’s servers.

Humane initially sought to sell the business for $750 million to $1 billion but ultimately shifted its focus to software. Now, HP will gain access to over 300 patents and applications, as well as key technologies from the company. The deal is expected to close by the end of February.

Earlier, Spot reported that OpenAI, a former Apple executive, and Steve Jobs' widow will release a smartphone with AI.