Aina’s smart ring has a screen, a joystick, and a mic so you can talk to AI agents

Aina's newly launched "AI ring" integrates features typically found in smartwatches into a ring form factor, including a screen for notifications, a speaker for calls, and a microphone for interacting with AI agents. This device, available for preorder at $399, is designed to act as a control interface for both AI and traditional applications, building on the company's previous experience with its Mirage controller.

To distinguish itself in a market that already includes other smart rings, Aina has incorporated a joystick for navigation and gesture support. The founder, Apoorv Shankar, states the ring addresses a need for a "better interface" for "proactive agents," suggesting it targets users surrounded by digital devices and AI applications who seek a more direct interaction method than phones or laptops.

While the ring can control music and smart home devices like Apple TV, and a reporter noted it "feels like a smartwatch in a ring format," its long-term utility is still being assessed. The report indicates that "a lot of the software and features are still being fleshed out," suggesting the full capabilities and user experience may evolve significantly before its planned shipping date in January 2027.

Aina’s approach aligns with a broader trend among companies, including OpenAI and Rabbit, to develop specialized hardware that enhances interaction with multiple AI agents. This strategy assumes a growing user base will invest in dedicated gadgets to manage their AI applications effectively, moving beyond traditional phone or laptop screens.