Rabbit R1: A New AI-Powered Handheld Device Making Waves in the Tech Industry
In the ever-evolving realm of technology, the Rabbit R1 has emerged as a groundbreaking handheld device that’s turning heads. Developed by Rabbit Inc., a Santa Monica-based startup, the R1 has captivated consumers and tech enthusiasts alike with its unique blend of AI capabilities and vintage charm.
The Rabbit R1: Design and Features
Picture a palm-sized, luminous orange device with a design reminiscent of a 1990s handheld video game console. That’s the Rabbit R1. Crafted in collaboration with renowned design firm Teenage Engineering, the R1 features a pressable scroll wheel for accessing built-in functions and voice controls, a rotating camera for photo and video capture, and a 2.88-inch touch screen that’s both clear and responsive. Weighing just 115 grams, the R1 is incredibly pocketable and convenient to carry.
The Power of AI: The R1’s Operating System
The Rabbit R1’s true magic lies in its unique operating system, powered by a proprietary “large action model” developed in-house. This foundation model is designed to learn user intentions and behaviors, enabling the R1 to perform complex tasks and execute actions on behalf of the user across various platforms and environments, including iOS, Android, and desktop.
Launch and Reception
Despite its absence at CES 2024, the Rabbit R1 has garnered immense attention from consumers and tech media. Since its unveiling in Las Vegas during the same week as CES, the device has seen unprecedented demand, with five batches of pre-orders selling out swiftly. The company recently announced the start of pre-orders for a sixth batch of 50,000 units, following the successful sell-out of its latest batch of 10,000 devices.
The Visionary Behind Rabbit: Jesse Lyu Cheng
The driving force behind Rabbit Inc. is Jesse Lyu Cheng, a Chinese technology entrepreneur with an impressive track record. Lyu, who holds a degree in financial mathematics from Xian Jiaotong-Liverpool University and the University of Liverpool, has been recognized for his innovative spirit and entrepreneurial prowess. He has been featured twice on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Entrepreneurs list and has led successful ventures such as Timeet, a social media service, and Raven Tech, a smart home AI device maker.
Raven Tech: Lyu’s Previous Success
Prior to founding Rabbit, Lyu established Raven Tech in 2014, a company focused on developing smart home AI devices. Raven Tech gained significant traction, becoming the only Chinese company to receive funding from the prestigious US technology incubator Y Combinator. In February 2017, the company was acquired by Baidu, the Chinese AI and search engine giant, in a deal reportedly valued at US$90 million.
Rabbit’s Funding and Future Prospects
Rabbit Inc. has secured US$36 million in funding from investors in the United States, Canada, and South Korea. With its promising start and the growing demand for the Rabbit R1, the company is poised for further success in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
Conclusion
The Rabbit R1 has emerged as a game-changer in the realm of AI-powered devices. Its unique operating system, combined with its sleek design and user-friendly interface, has captivated consumers and tech enthusiasts alike. As Rabbit Inc. continues to push the boundaries of AI technology, the Rabbit R1 stands as a testament to the company’s vision and the potential of AI to revolutionize the way we interact with technology.