The Rabbit R1 is a handheld device that uses AI and verbal commands to complete tasks. It has a cool retro design and is good at understanding natural language. The visual search feature is fun to use. However, there are limitations, such as not many compatible services yet, short battery life, and the device not saving answers for later reference. There are also some noticeable bugs that need to be addressed, including issues with internet connectivity and certain landmarks not being correctly identified.
The R1’s design is half the size of a smartphone and comes in a bright orange color. It features a 2.8-inch screen, a scroll wheel for navigation, and an 8-megapixel camera. Interacting with the device through verbal commands is the primary method, making it feel like a walkie-talkie. Setting up the R1 involves connecting it to the internet and linking it to digital services through an online portal called the Rabbithole. Updates and new services are planned for the future, expanding its capabilities.
The R1’s camera can identify objects in the real world and provide answers to queries. It can be used as a visual search tool, similar to Google Gemini and Google Lens. The device’s battery life is a major drawback, requiring frequent recharging. Despite its limitations, the R1 shows potential as a productivity tool, with features such as editing spreadsheets and generating images through Midjourney. It can also serve as a personal translator and voice recorder for saving memos.
The R1 can answer questions, play music on Spotify, use its camera for visual search, and more. While it provides detailed responses to queries, its services are limited compared to smartphone virtual assistants like Siri. The R1 aims to simplify tasks and provide faster and more intuitive interactions than a smartphone. However, its current state feels incomplete, with bugs and limitations impacting the user experience. The device has potential but needs further development to compete with smartphones.
Overall, the Rabbit R1 is an intriguing concept with a retro design and innovative approach to AI interaction. It shows promise in certain areas, such as image generation and natural language understanding. However, it falls short in terms of compatibility, battery life, and user experience. While it may appeal to those curious about future technology, most users may find it more practical to stick with their smartphones for now. The R1’s success will depend on ongoing developments and improvements to address current limitations.
