Former Meta Employees Innovate with Smart Ring Designed for Voice Notes and Music Control
In a notable development within the realm of voice-driven technology, two ex-Meta employees have founded Sandbar, introducing a new product known as the Stream ring. This innovative device aims to enhance personal productivity by allowing users to capture thoughts and interact with AI seamlessly.
The Stream ring is designed to be worn on the index finger and operates as "a mouse for voice." This smart ring is equipped with sensitive microphones and a touchpad, enabling users to take notes, manage music playback, and engage with AI assistants effortlessly.
Founders Mina Fahmi, who has a rich history in human-computer interface design from his time at Kernel and Magic Leap, and Kirak Hong, who previously worked at Google and CTRL-Labs, recognized a gap in the market for a more intuitive voice interface. During a recent virtual demonstration, Fahmi illustrated how users can effortlessly record their thoughts by pressing the touchpad, with the ring’s microphone activating only during this gesture to ensure privacy.
Key Features of the Stream Ring:
- Voice Recording: Users can capture thoughts quietly, even in noisy environments, with features designed for haptic feedback when notes are successfully registered.
- AI Companion: The accompanying iOS app integrates an AI chatbot that lets users organize and edit their recorded notes.
- Music Controls: The ring functions as a media controller, allowing users to play, pause, and adjust volume without needing to reach for their devices.
- Data Control: Sandbar emphasizes user privacy, providing full data control with encryption during storage and transmission and allowing data export to apps like Notion.
Starting Wednesday, pre-orders for the Stream ring will be available at $249 for the silver model and $299 for the gold version, with expected shipping set for next summer. A Pro subscription offers additional features for $10 per month after a three-month complimentary trial.
As competition intensifies in the voice-AI hardware sector, Sandbar’s Stream ring aims to provide an efficient alternative to existing devices while avoiding the pitfalls associated with tighter ecosystems. With a recent funding boost of $13 million from investors including True Ventures, the company is poised to demonstrate the utility and value of its ring design in a market crowded with emerging gadgets.
