While AI is already widely used in connection with apps and websites, the era of stand-alone, AI-native hardware solutions for end-users has only just begun. One such solution is the rabbit r1 AI assistant developed by Californian start-up rabbit. The design of the palm-sized rectangular device breaks away from legacy form factors such as smartphones. Heavily rounded edges, a bright orange colour and the ever-present virtual rabbit on the display hint at the influence of 1990s technology like Tamagotchis and create a retro-futuristic feel. It is also clear that this device is intended to be fun. Preference has been given to a limited number of tactile, analogue control elements such as a scroll wheel and a push-to-talk button rather than equipping the device with a touchscreen and icons. That makes sense as interaction is based on natural spoken language. Although the small mobile device focuses on speech, it is supplemented by the rabbithole web portal that can be accessed via PCs or laptops. Here, a journal provides a timeline that allows users to retrieve and reuse all interactions with the device while also storing all the data. Use of the rabbit r1 is simple and ergonomic. It neatly fits into the palm of the hand and allows users to operate the scroll wheel and button with the right thumb. Language recognition is only activated once the button is pressed, just like with a walkie-talkie. Pressing it twice activates the 360-degree rotating camera with AI-supported image recognition. Safety and privacy are built into the device. It can only hear when the button is pushed, and the camera lens is physically blocked when the device is not in use. rabbit r1 draws on ChatGPT’s large language model (LLM). However, the aim is not only for the device to respond intelligently but also to act intelligently. For this reason, it also features a large action model (LAM) that runs in the background and is capable of learning so as to be able to interact with websites and apps in an ever more effective manner to trigger desired actions. rabbit r1 is designed to constantly evolve and be capable of taking on the role of personal assistant. The jury was extremely impressed. “The innovative rabbit r1 AI assistant has found a consistently coherent form for the interaction between humans and language-based AI while making a real design statement.” And: “The device provides a glimpse of what our future with special AI hardware could look like. It is a user-friendly, colourful future.”