Amazon’s new AI wearable, Bee, isn’t really meant as a work device. Rather, the goal of the device is to improve daily life by capturing sound, producing spoken output, and helping with conversation in group situations. On one hand, this groundbreaking product raises serious questions about privacy and civil liberties. It pushes against the slippery slope of professional application and personal use.
Bee has the really cool ability to be able to label speakers within conversations thanks to its accompanying app. Users are able to recognize speakers simply by clicking on desired sections of recorded dialogues. This new feature is not quite yet up to par with the sophistication exhibited by more established, professional AI transcribers.
The device comes with a sports band, although initial feedback suggests that the band may be somewhat flimsy, potentially compromising durability during active use. Bee’s design reflects Amazon’s aim for technology to become integrated into people’s daily lives. It provides consumers a valuable tool that encourages informal exchanges rather than just through official channels.
Amazon’s strategic calculus in launching Bee is likely twofold. First and foremost, they are curious to explore consumer demand for such devices. In either case, Bee’s market traction will be key in finding such a collaborative AI wearables niche. These machines hope to liberate sound capture and increase storytelling potential of average civilians.
Though Bee is technically on legal ground to record whatever audio she wants in public settings, there are serious ethical considerations at play here. Eyewitness video and audio without prior explicit consent may seem unfortunate and opportunistic at best. This new behavior requires users to think critically about the social and political implications of utilizing such technology. This shows that the design need to be carefully integrated into users’ every day lives.
Bee is still being tested, but we’re testing consumer interest in its individual features, usability as a whole, and overall appeal. Feedback from our early adopters will be essential in continuing to make this product all that it can be and develop it further. While Amazon is still going through the process of shaping Bee through user experience and customization, it does look promising.