The Future of Tech: Ian Clemens Humane's Invisible AI Wearables | TED

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ED Talk, a former Apple executive, Ian Clemens, shared his experiences of working for 22 years at Apple, contributing to the design of iconic devices from the Mac to the iPhone and the Apple Watch. As the power of computing increased, devices became smaller, more portable, and eventually led to the ubiquitous presence of smartphones in our lives.

Clemens delves into the future, questioning what comes next in the world of technology. He acknowledges that while AR/VR glasses have been proposed as the next step, they may simply be moving screens closer to our eyes. The real future, he believes, lies in technology becoming invisible, as predicted by tech journalist Walt Mossberg in 2017.

The entrepreneur introduces his company, Humane, and their pursuit of answering the question, "What comes next?" He emphasizes their dedication to building technology that genuinely improves people's lives, with a strong belief that artificial intelligence (AI) will drive the next leap in device design.

Clemens unveils a new kind of wearable device and platform entirely built for AI. Unlike existing wearables, this device is standalone, requiring no smartphone pairing. Describing it as "screenless, seamless, and sensing," he asserts that it allows users to interact with the world naturally, with the device fading into the background of daily life.

The speaker highlights the importance of AI in creating responsible and trustworthy products. He shares examples of how this invisible device can revolutionize language barriers, enabling users to effortlessly communicate in different languages with the help of AI-generated speech models.

Moving beyond concerns about the direction of computing, Clemens introduces the concept of natural interactions with invisible devices. He envisions a world where technology seamlessly integrates into daily life, enhancing experiences rather than detracting from them. The device, powered by AI, becomes a personalized form of memory, offering tailored assistance based on individual preferences and needs.

Clemens provides glimpses into the potential applications of AI, such as summarizing missed events and providing health-related recommendations. He emphasizes the device's ability to offer real-time, context-aware information, making technology ambient and contextual.

In conclusion, Clemens envisions a future where technology is not held in hand or worn on the face but becomes nearly invisible. He expresses excitement about the challenge of reimagining the human-technology relationship and creating a world where technology enhances our ability to engage with the world.

As we consider Clemens' vision, it prompts reflection on the potential impact of AI-driven wearables on our daily lives. The prospect of technology seamlessly integrating into our existence, offering personalized assistance and enriching our experiences, opens up new possibilities. The journey towards invisible technology is undoubtedly a significant leap, presenting both challenges and opportunities. It invites us to ponder not only the advancements in AI but also the profound transformations it may bring to our interactions with the world.