Pebble AI Smart Ring: Record Notes with a Button - $75

Pebble Founder Launches AI-Powered Smart Ring: Index 01

Following the revitalization of the Pebble smartwatch brand, Eric Migicovsky, the company’s founder, is introducing a new wearable device. This innovative gadget is an AI-powered smart ring, designated Index 01.

Designed for Quick Capture

The ring, priced at $75, is intended to be worn on the index finger – hence the name. It isn’t positioned as a competitor to continuously listening AI devices, such as the Friend pendant. Instead, its primary function is to facilitate the recording of rapid notes and reminders through a simple button press on the ring’s side.

The AI functionality is integrated via open-source speech-to-text models and AI that operate directly on your smartphone, accessed through the Pebble mobile application. Crucially, recording only occurs when the button is actively pressed and held, preventing unintentional or surreptitious audio capture.

Durability and Practicality

The stainless steel ring is designed for everyday wear, including during activities like showering, handwashing, and exposure to rain. However, it is not suitable for prolonged submersion, with a water resistance rating of 1 meter.

It’s important to note that Index 01 is not a fitness tracker or sleep monitor. It does not collect data related to heart rate or other health metrics. Its focus remains solely on providing a convenient method for capturing thoughts.

A Focus on Simplicity and Privacy

“I build things that solve one main problem, and they solve it really well,” Migicovsky explained to TechCrunch. He describes the ring as “external memory for my brain,” emphasizing its constant availability.

A key design principle is data privacy. All recorded thoughts are stored locally on your smartphone, avoiding cloud storage and eliminating the need for a subscription.

Competition and Alternatives

The market for voice-note wearables is expanding. Sandbar, a startup founded by former Meta employees, recently unveiled the Stream Ring. While also enabling voice recording via touch activation, the Stream Ring offers a tiered pricing structure, including a free version with limited AI features and a $10/month “Stream Pro” subscription for unlimited access.

Long-Term Use and Battery Life

Migicovsky has personally used the ring for three months and reports an inability to envision returning to a life without this readily available memory aid.

He highlights the common experience of having ideas or recollections that are quickly forgotten if not immediately documented. The ring provides a solution to this issue without adding another device requiring frequent charging.

The ring’s battery is projected to last for years. It supports approximately 12-14 hours of recording time. Based on an average usage of 10-20 recordings per day, each lasting 3-6 seconds, Migicovsky estimates a battery life of around two years. The ring can be returned to the company for recycling when the battery is depleted.

Recording Capabilities and Integration

The Index ring allows for audio recordings of up to five minutes, which are saved on the ring and subsequently synchronized with your smartphone. This makes it ideal for capturing short, personal notes, even when your phone is out of reach. However, it is not suitable for recording extended conversations or meetings.

The ring supports over 100 languages and features on-device memory for situations where a Bluetooth connection to your device is unavailable. The raw audio is also preserved, ensuring data recovery even if the speech-to-text transcription is inaccurate due to noise.

Connectivity and Customization

Recordings can be displayed on a Pebble smartwatch or other compatible smartwatches for immediate verification. The ring integrates with the Pebble mobile app, offering notes and reminders, and can also connect to your phone’s calendar or other applications like Notion.

The ring’s software is open source, allowing for community-driven modifications and enhancements. The button can be programmed to perform various functions, such as controlling music playback or activating your phone’s camera shutter. It can also be used with apps like Beeper, created by Migicovsky, or customized with voice actions via MCP.

Reimagining Hardware Development

Eric Migicovsky recognizes the inherent challenges in successful hardware development, referencing the circumstances surrounding Pebble’s acquisition by Fitbit, which was subsequently acquired by Google in 2021.

Migicovsky openly shares, “My involvement with Pebble did not result in financial gain—the acquisition, while an exit, was not particularly favorable.”

However, a renewed opportunity arose this year with Google’s decision to open-source PebbleOS, prompting Migicovsky to revisit the Pebble project and explore new hardware possibilities.

Through his new venture, Core Devices, Migicovsky intends to implement a different operational strategy.

Despite past experiences, the founder expresses no regrets regarding his earlier decisions.

“Looking back, I wouldn’t alter anything. I remain proud of the product we created and the company we established. However, it’s not the sole model for building a business,” he explained to TechCrunch. “As a former YC partner, I understand there are appropriate times for venture-backed startups. Some companies thrive with funding and large teams, which is the approach I previously pursued… Currently, I am exploring an alternative route—one that prioritizes achieving profitability from the outset,” he stated.

The current team at Core Devices consists of five individuals, operates on self-funding, and prioritizes long-term sustainability.

To date, Core Devices has successfully shipped the Pebble 2 Duo smartwatch, featuring a black-and-white display. The initial production run was entirely sold out, and the company is now preparing for shipments of the enhanced Pebble Time 2 model.

The Pebble Time 2, which garnered 25,000 pre-orders, is a stainless steel timepiece equipped with a larger, color e-ink screen.

Regarding the Index 01 smart ring, the pre-order pricing will conclude in March 2026. Following this date, the retail price will be adjusted to $99. Currently available in silver, polished gold, and matte black finishes, the ring is compatible with both iOS and Android platforms.

Customers have a choice of eight ring sizes, ranging from 6 to 13, to ensure a comfortable fit.