ByteDance launched its first set of earbuds, Ola Friend. The TikTok owners claim that it allows users to speak with the company’s generative AI, Doubao, which can be activated via voice command without needing a smartphone. On a related note, Doubao is currently the most popular generative AI app in China, with more than 27 million monthly active users in the first half of this year.
Features-wise, the earbuds are said to allow users retrieve online information on travel, learn English, and more. ByteDance claims users can interact with Doubao and have a genuine conversation as its voice has been made to sound realistic. Interestingly, the company adds that the AI assistant is also able to express emotions such as happiness or fear.
The hardware for Ola Friend is developed by Oladance, an audio-device making company based in Shenzhen that was acquired by ByteDance last month. ByteDance stated that the AI features of the earbuds will be continuously updated after its release.
The earbuds are available in four colours, purple, silver, black, and white. Pre-orders are only available on select online stores in China, with a price tag of CNY1,199 (~RM726) and will be shipped out within its local region on 17 October.
(Source: OlaDance, Engadget, South China Morning Post)
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