Rabbit R1 Review: Ambitious Leap into AI Handhelds, But Not Ready to Replace Your Smartphone
The Rabbit R1 is an ambitious experiment in how we can redefine our relationship with technology-in a future free from traditional apps. For $199, this AI-driven handheld device promises to get tasks done with simple verbal commands, rather than through the apps we’ve grown used to. All in all, though, the concept is quite interesting, but execution doesn’t feel quite right. Here’s an in-depth review of Rabbit R1, its potential and pitfalls.
Rabbit R1 AI Device what is this
The Rabbit R1 is an app-free handheld device that relies on AI to perform tasks, aiming to streamline everyday digital interactions. Designed in collaboration with Teenage Engineering, the Rabbit R1’s operating system (Rabbit OS) replaces apps with a voice-command-based interface. Creator Jesse Lyu envisions it as the future of task management—a “real world” Pokedex.
First Impressions: Design and Build
Rabbit R1’s design is the most attractive feature of it. The gadget is smaller in size, like a half of smartphone. Its bright orange color, an 8-megapixel camera, a 2.8-inch screen, and navigation through a scroll wheel contribute to its futuristic yet nostalgic appearance, drawing comparisons to quirky gadgets in science fiction, like a seashell phone from It Follows.
This small size and walkie-talkie interaction pattern feel rather peculiar. The small screen is not intended for navigation, but rather for getting done with most tasks on this device through voice commands. Nonetheless, this very design choice again adds to the weakness of the device as far as functionality is concerned.
How Does the Rabbit R1 AI Device Work?
The Rabbit R1 works by using voice commands to engage the digital services. Instead of getting an app, one connects his or her device to services like Uber, Door dash, and Spotify via an internet portal known as the Rabbit hole. Using the AI language model, the R1 will process the commands and execute the requests on your behalf.
Then, for instance, you can say, “Order food from Door dash,” or “Create an image of a sunset,” and R1 will try to comply with that request. While the idea is innovative, the current realization does not have the finesse required to compete with smartphones.
Advantages of the Rabbit R1 AI Device
1. Innovative Task Automation
The R1 excels in moments when its AI-driven functionality works as intended. Tasks like generating images through Midjourney or dictating a memo for later reference demonstrate the potential of voice-based interactions.
2. Portable and Lightweight
Its compact size makes it easy to carry, and the bright orange design ensures it stands out among tech gadgets.
3. A New Approach to User Interfaces
Rabbit OS challenges users to think differently about interacting with technology. Rather than tapping through apps, users have to formulate clear questions or commands, which leads to a more thoughtful and streamlined experience.
Limitations of the Rabbit R1 AI Device
1. Limited Service Integrations
Currently, Rabbit R1 AI Device supports only a few platforms, such as Uber, Spotify, Doordash, and Midjourney. Planned integrations with services such as Yelp and Apple Music will hopefully increase its value, but for the time being, it seems constrained.
2. Irregular Performance
The Rabbit R1 AI Device will make mistakes in navigating tasks like identifying features or correcting spreadsheets. For example, the R1 can identify the Washington Square Arch but cannot recognize the New York Stock Exchange or Castle Clinton, other famous New York City landmarks.
3. Connectivity and Battery Issues
Constant internet losses and the rapid dissipation of the battery make the Rabbit R1 AI Device unreliable in frequent usage. While upgrades assure to correct these shortcomings, existing users find it challenging to use the device frequently without frustration.
4. Learning Curve
It is sometimes unintuitive navigating the Rabbit Rabbit R1 AI Device’s out of the box interface. For example, shaking the phone twice opens the settings menu, not an immediately intuitive action to new users.
Real-World Testing: Can the R1 Replace Your Smartphone?
As a Tour Guide
The Rabbit R1’s camera functions as a visual search tool, designed to identify objects and landmarks. While it successfully identified the Washington Square Arch, it faltered with other landmarks. Moreover, its visual search capability feels underwhelming compared to Google Lens or Gemini, which can deliver similar results faster and more accurately.
To be Productive The Rabbit R1 AI Device promises much but delivers little to nothing. For example, it can edit a spreadsheet using voice commands; however, errors like text truncated in columns make it unusable. It is great at creating images or transcribing notes, but this is something a smartphone can do better.
Rabbit R1 Key Features
- Voice-Based Commands: Eliminates the need for app interfaces.
- Camera as a Visual Search Tool: Identifies objects and landmarks.
- AI-Generated Images: Creates visuals using platforms like Midjourney.
- Minimalist Design: Encourages focused interactions.
Battery Life: A Major Flaw
One of the Rabbit R1 AI Device biggest problems is battery life. The device sucks battery life even when it stays idle. During the sightseeing trip, the battery was depleted before midday, a constant need for a portable charger.
Updates promise improvement, but for now, that actually undermines this overall portability.
The Verdict: Is the Rabbit R1 Worth It?
The Rabbit R1 AI Device is an exciting glimpse into a possible future of AI-driven gadgets, but it’s not ready to replace your smartphone—or even supplement it meaningfully—for most people. Its limited integrations, inconsistent performance, and short battery life leave it feeling very much like a prototype rather than a finished product.
If you’re curious about the evolution of AI and willing to gamble $199 on an experimental device, the Rabbit R1 AI Device might intrigue you. But for most users, sticking to a smartphone remains the better choice.
FAQs About the Rabbit R1
1. What is the Rabbit R1 designed for?
The Rabbit R1 AI Device aims to streamline tasks using voice commands rather than traditional app interfaces.
2. Can the Rabbit R1 replace my smartphone? Absolutely not; instead, the Rabbit R1 is more of a complement than a replacement since it lacks the functionality and reliability of a smartphone.
3. Can the Rabbit R1 be used without internet access? No. The Rabbit R1 AI Device is always connected to the net for most its tasks; hence connectivity is of the utmost importance.
4. Can the battery life of the Rabbit R1 be relied upon?
Not quite yet. The current version suffers from rapid battery drain, though updates are expected to address this issue.
5. Who should buy the Rabbit R1?
Tech enthusiasts interested in experimental AI devices might enjoy the R1. However, it’s not suitable for those looking for a reliable, everyday gadget.