Rabbit R1: Smartphone Killer or another doomed AI gadget?

The Rabbit R1, the latest device in the AI gadget market, had set tongues rolling when it was introduced
to the world for the first time at the CES event earlier this year. The device, which was touted as a
smartphone ‘killer’, was launched last month and, much like the Humane AI pin, it hasn’t quite resonated with users.
Despite its modest price tag of $200, the Rabbit R1 lacks many standard features available on
smartphones, such as email functionality, calendar reminders, and comprehensive app connectivity,
supporting only Spotify, Uber, DoorDash, and Midjourney.
Now, reports by tech bloggers suggest the Rabbit R1’s AI and operating system can be replicated on an
Android phone with minimal effort. Mishaal Rahman from Android Authority successfully operated
Rabbit’s OS on a Pixel 6 using a leaked launcher APK, casting doubts on the necessity of Rabbit’s
bespoke hardware.
Rabbit’s CEO, Jesse Lyu, insists that the device’s code is specifically tailored to run on proprietary
hardware and cloud services, making any unauthorised versions inferior. However, early adopters have
reported significant limitations with the device, such as poor battery life—though a recent update claims
to address this issue—and basic functionality that barely surpasses that of existing smartphone AIs like Siri.
With smartphones continually enhancing their AI capabilities, it seems the Rabbit R1, with its outdated
Mediatek processor and limited connectivity options, was prematurely launched. Critics argue that the
device, which can barely handle simple queries and has minimal interaction capabilities, does not justify
its cost, especially when compared to smartphones that can do all that, and more.