Cryptocurrency and AI hardware to attract attention in 2024

From pocket AI assistants to humanoid robots, this year’s hardware innovations illustrate the growing convergence of artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, and consumer technology.

Despite concerns that the AI ​​boom could result in more toxic waste by 2030, more and more products are coming to market. The hardware landscape has changed dramatically as companies large and small rush to bring AI from the cloud and into the hands of consumers.

Meanwhile, cryptocurrency hardware continues to meet user demand, with manufacturers learning hard lessons about pricing and practicality.

This year’s standout products reflect an industry in transition where success depends not only on technological innovation but also on the sweet spot between product functionality and accessibility.

In no particular order, we’ve rounded up seven devices that will get your attention in 2024. In some cases, they have completely redefined the category.

Rabbit R1

In a year dominated by AI hardware launches, Rabbit R1 emerged as a standout product, even a frontrunner. With an accessible price of $199, this pocket-sized AI assistant has been praised for picking up where others have gone wrong.

According to Lewis Hilsenteger, technology critic at Unbox Therapy, the device’s “Large Action Model” technology allows you to control other apps at impressive speeds. Most responses occur within 1.5 to 2 seconds.

“What the hardware represents is an opportunity to get people excited about new ways of input that are no longer touch-based and no longer app-based,” Hilsenteger said in a video review.

The R1’s success provides some contrast to its more expensive competitors, suggesting that affordability and practicality may trump premium positioning in the nascent AI hardware market.

Human AI Pin

If Rabbit R1 represents the potential of AI hardware, Humane AI Pin serves as a warning about the dangers of overpromising and underdelivering. Despite endorsements from tech industry celebrities and a sleek design, the $699 device and $24 monthly subscription fee received harsh reviews following its launch.

David Pierce wrote, “Should I buy this? That’s easy. No. No. No.” The VergeThis is your scathing review. Critics noted slow performance, limited functionality, and the constant need for an Internet connection.

Finn’s response became a learning moment for the industry, highlighting the gap between the promise of AI and its current practical limitations.

Figure 02 Humanoid robot

While consumer AI is making headlines, Figure AI has quietly advanced the cutting edge of humanoid robotics with Figure 02. The robot’s enhanced AI system and enhanced computer vision are powered by six AI-enabled RGB cameras and other advancements in hardware.

Our partnership with OpenAI brings advanced language and visual processing capabilities to the platform.

“These robots eliminate the need for unsafe and undesirable tasks, ultimately allowing us to live happier, more purposeful lives,” said Figure AI founder Brett Adcock.

With a $2.6 billion valuation and backing from tech giants like Microsoft and Nvidia, Figure 02 suggests that the era of practical humanoid robots may be closer than we think.

Solana Seeker

Following the unexpected success of the Saga smartphone, Solana Mobile is doubling down on Seeker. Unveiled this year and scheduled for release in 2025, the $500 device has already secured 140,000 pre-orders, suggesting a strong market appetite for cryptocurrency-backed mobile devices.

Seeker features significant improvements over its predecessor, including upgraded cameras (108-megapixel and 32-megapixel sensors), improved battery life, and what Solana Mobile general manager Emmett Hollyer calls a “meaningful boost” in processing power. I promise.

“Of course it will be a rewards magnet,” Hollyer said. decryptionIt cites an airdrop appeal that helped Saga sell out in late 2023. “But it will also open the door to unique experiences that we think will be new to Seeker vs. Saga.”

BitBoy One Gaming Portable Game Console

Bridging the worlds of retro gaming and cryptocurrency, BitBoy One represents a new approach to hardware wallets. The $500 device combines gaming features with Bitcoin storage and DePIN mining capabilities, and is packaged in a nostalgic Game Boy-inspired design.

Although processing power is limited to PlayStation-era and older games, the device’s versatility could appeal to cryptocurrency enthusiasts looking for more engagement than traditional hardware wallets offer.

We’ve also written about other cryptocurrency gaming handhelds that have been making waves this year, and the burgeoning space looks interesting as we approach 2025. BitBoy One recently started shipping. decryption Currently testing. Stay tuned for more coverage in the new year.

Nakamoto Chronograph

Luxury watchmaker Franck Muller’s limited edition Nakamoto Chronograph brings luxury timepieces to the world of cryptocurrency. We didn’t write about this watch, but about one of the following: detoxification Authors had the opportunity to test it out at Token2049 in Singapore earlier this year.

Limited to just 100 pieces, this carbon fiber watch features the manufacturer’s signature Vanguard shape and a sophisticated Swiss automatic movement. Inside the 45 mm case, the chronograph showcases Muller’s signature craftsmanship via the FM 0800 Swiss automatic movement with a 42-hour power reserve. The watch is also water resistant up to 30 meters.

Carbon fiber construction and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protect the complex mechanism, while a black alligator leather strap and bi-fold clasp provide the elegance required for a true collector’s piece.

“Satoshi Nakamoto designed Bitcoin by cleverly weaving technological, economic and legal complexities,” the watchmaker said, comparing the Bitcoin creator to Muller’s penchant for “timeless” symbols of elegance and innovation. said.

The watch’s tribute to Bitcoin’s anonymous creator extends beyond the name to design elements that reference blockchain technology and cryptocurrency culture.

While its whopping $54,600 price point places it firmly in the luxury category, the Chronograph signals a growing mainstream acceptance of cryptocurrency culture in more traditional areas.

mother design

As Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks, or DePIN, gained popularity this year, some projects were quick to capitalize on the trend. AirMoney’s Degn device claims to be the first hardware wallet designed specifically for this emerging ecosystem.

The device combines traditional wallet security with active network participation capabilities, including built-in node operations capabilities and physical controls for transactions. The project deploys devices that are “purpose-built” for cryptocurrency participation, similar to how the Kindle is explicitly designed for reading.

The most notable feature is the physical interface, including a tactile knob for adjusting trading leverage and OLED buttons that provide tactile feedback during trading. The design philosophy prioritizes hands-on interaction with digital assets, moving away from the purely screen-based interfaces typical of most cryptocurrency hardware.

This focused approach sets a new standard for crypto hardware, moving beyond simple storage to more active ecosystem participation.

Editors: Sebastian Sinclair and Andrew Hayward