The latest trend in artificial intelligence (AI) is multi-modal AI, which can talk, see, and listen. This innovation has led to a new wave of AI gadgets, like the Rabbit R1 and the Humane AI Pin, designed to embody futuristic technology.
In May, within just two days, OpenAI showcased a world-sensing avatar of ChatGPT, while Google presented a similar demo with Project Astra for its Gemini Assistant. The goal is clear: AI will transcend traditional text and image interaction, evolving how humans engage with technology.
London-based startup Nothing appears to have anticipated this shift. In April, the company introduced new wireless earbuds in the Nothing Ear series. They deliver impressive sound quality, a sleek design, and a budget-friendly price. However, their most exciting feature is a pinch gesture that enables you to access ChatGPT right in your ears.
This innovative ChatGPT integration is facilitated by the Nothing X app. Starting with the Nothing Phone 2, the feature is also available on older Nothing devices. It’s refreshing when brands extend functionality to older, more affordable products, as Nothing has done, enhancing user experience.
The intention behind this integration is commendable, and Nothing has executed it seamlessly. There’s no complicated manual setup; just ensure your phone and earbuds have the latest software updates. Simply pair the earbuds with your Nothing Phone, and the Nothing X app will guide you. A pinch and long press on the left earbud activates ChatGPT's voice mode, allowing for interaction without needing to open an app—just pinch the stem for instant access.
How valuable this ChatGPT-earbud synergy is depends on how much you rely on its capabilities in daily life. Would you pay $20 a month for premium access? It’s crucial to consider that ChatGPT’s utility can feel limited. Let me illustrate its constraints with ChatGPT's own words: “As of my last update in January 2022…” or “I can’t provide real-time updates or information beyond January 2022.” The free version cannot deliver real-time information; its knowledge is restricted to before January 2022.
For many, this may not pose an issue. ChatGPT remains an excellent knowledge repository and a capable summarizer. However, without a subscription, you’ll essentially encounter a chatty philosopher whose knowledge is frozen in time. To access current information, you’ll need ChatGPT Plus.
During my commute, I pinched the Nothing earbuds and asked ChatGPT to explain convolutional neural networks (CNN) in the context of self-driving cars. It provided an outstanding explanation. I just wish it could narrate the details in Scarlett Johansson’s voice!
“It just comes naturally to us, even if we’re conversing with computers.”
Set up on my iPad Pro, fueled by a robust cup of espresso, I felt prepared to write about the technology and how computer scientist Yann LeCun recently illustrated the significance of CNNs to Elon Musk on social media.
It’s remarkable that a vast repository of knowledge (assuming the world ended in January 2022) can be accessed through Nothing earbuds. I used the onboard mics to mention my location, and ChatGPT suggested three nearby pizzerias. Having that information relayed through your earbuds without reaching for your phone is a convenience that must be experienced. It also provided a summary of must-visit destinations in Ladakh’s cold deserts and recommendations for top-rated hostels in Colombo.
However, the AI honeymoon fades as soon as you seek to retrieve real-time information. Asking questions like “Who won the recent WWE King of the Ring tournament?” or “What’s the weather like in the city?” will yield frustratingly irrelevant answers due to that well-known knowledge cutoff in January 2022. While ChatGPT can browse the web for current information—thanks to Microsoft’s Bing integration—this feature is not included in the free version and requires a $20 monthly subscription for ChatGPT Plus.
Fortunately, there exists an alternative AI, Perplexity, which can summarize web content for free. However, upon tapping the audio icon for a summarized answer in your Nothing earbuds, you’re met with yet another subscription prompt starting at $20 monthly.
Nothing’s vision of making AI access more convenient is admirable, and I support technology that prioritizes user experience. However, some experts express skepticism about integrating generative AI directly into ear canals, viewing it as part of an inevitable evolution in digital communication.
Among the optimists is Justin Uberti, creator of Google Duo and former engineering lead for Google Stadia. He emphasizes that voice interaction will likely become our primary method of communicating with AI in the coming years, largely due to its convenience and richer experience. “Spoken language also carries a certain authority that written words do not,” he adds, noting the importance of trust in verbal communication.
Yet, this is where the issues of hallucination arise. Even a giant like Google has encountered difficulties in establishing AI as a trustworthy companion, evidenced by frequent errors in AI-generated information. Despite the allure of conversing with an AI without physically interacting with a device, user verification remains essential, which typically necessitates pulling out your phone—a similar dilemma applies to dedicated AI devices that may end up being overhyped.
Uberti also raised concerns about the potential for distractions, as ChatGPT tends to overzealously deliver information. “Conversing with AI allows our hands and eyes to remain free, making it safer compared to other communication methods,” he noted.
“We learn how to do it long before we learn how to type.”
However, he acknowledges the inherent risks, which is why his company, Fixie.ai, is developing applications for voice-based AI that prioritize enjoyable interactions over stringent productivity. John Licato, an assistant professor of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of South Florida, believes Nothing’s decision to integrate ChatGPT is positive but warns of the risks posed by error-prone AI products.
“Voice interaction will benefit not just those with visual impairments but everyone, as it allows for interaction while driving or managing other tasks,” he affirms, highlighting the potential for a net benefit.
Brian Prince, founder of an educational AI resource hub, points out accessibility and the democratizing nature of this technology. “Voice control is invaluable for users who are blind, cannot type, or struggle with reading and comprehension,” he states.
Innovations like those introduced by Nothing could also transform telemedicine, especially for underserved populations where English is not the primary language. “In healthcare, voice-enabled generative AI can be revolutionary,” says Ramin Bastani, CEO of Healthvana. However, for any product to be successful, it must address significant real-world challenges, rather than catering to a niche audience. While ChatGPT may be a game-changer for some, its benefits may not extend to a broader demographic.
“I don’t see substantial real-world problems being addressed, many of which could be solved today with existing technology,” argues Max Vermeir, senior director of AI strategy at ABBYY, a company focused on AI solutions for enterprises. Safety concerns remain paramount, especially given the non-consensual data gathering practices among AI labs.
“This issue is exacerbated by the fact that users may be unaware their conversations are recorded and sent to the chatbot’s servers for processing,” explains Yi Fang, an associate professor of Computer Science and Engineering at Santa Clara University.
Throughout my discussions with experts, a consensus emerged that while generative AI tools like ChatGPT can have a positive impact, their full potential is yet to be realized. Addressing inherent issues and reducing costs for basic functionalities like web browsing and voice interactions are essential next steps. In terms of innovation, Nothing has made a commendable effort.
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