Rabbit, an emerging AI startup, has unveiled the Rabbit R1, a device that promises to redefine the way we interact with our favorite applications. Announced at CES 2024, the Rabbit R1 is not designed to replace smartphones but to offer a unique complement to them, according to Jesse Lyu, the visionary behind this innovative product.
The Rabbit R1 boasts a minimalist design, about half the size of a standard iPhone, making it a compact yet powerful gadget. It features a 2.88-inch screen, a rotating camera for versatile photography and video capabilities, and a scroll wheel that functions as both a navigation tool and a button for interface interaction.
One of the most striking aspects of the Rabbit R1 is its operating system, Rabbit OS. This proprietary system is based on what the company describes as a “large-scale action model.” Unlike traditional operating systems, Rabbit OS does not run standard applications. Instead, it acts as a universal controller, allowing users to access and control various services from their preferred apps without needing to log in directly. This innovative approach enables users to perform a wide range of tasks, such as ordering food, shopping online, streaming music, making reservations, and sending messages, all through the Rabbit R1.
The Rabbit R1 can be operated using both voice commands and the physical button, similar to interacting with well-known virtual assistants like Siri or Alexa. Its screen displays relevant information about these actions in an easy-to-understand widget or card format.
The AI powering the Rabbit R1 is capable of using applications independently, a feature that sets it apart from other devices. Rabbit has developed this AI without relying on open APIs for third-party developers. Instead, the AI has been trained by real users on platforms such as Uber and Spotify, learning how to function within these applications. The AI also serves as a dedicated language model, allowing users to teach the Rabbit R1 specific tasks within an app, which it can learn in as little as 30 seconds.
The Rabbit R1 is poised to enter the market soon, with an announced price of $199. This cost is notable considering the device’s capabilities and potential impact on everyday technology use.
