Pebble’s founder introduces a $75 AI smart ring for recording brief notes with a press of a button

Eric Migicovsky, the visionary behind Pebble smartwatches, is back with an innovative new product: the Index 01, a $75 AI-powered smart ring designed to simplify note-taking. Unlike other AI devices that are always listening, this ring prioritizes user control, allowing you to record quick thoughts and reminders by simply pressing a button on its side. The Index 01 utilizes open-source speech-to-text technology that operates locally through the accompanying Pebble mobile app. This means the ring only starts recording when you hold down the button, ensuring that no unintended conversations are captured. Made from stainless steel, the ring is built to withstand everyday activities, including showering and washing hands, but should be removed when swimming. Migicovsky emphasizes that the Index 01 is not intended to track fitness or function as a health monitor. Instead, he sees it as a tool for enhancing memory. "I think of it as external memory for my brain... it’s always with you," he explains. Notably, all recordings are stored on your smartphone, ensuring privacy without any subscription fees. The market for voice-recording wearables is growing, with competitors like Sandbar's Stream Ring, which offers different pricing tiers for its features. However, the Index 01 stands out with its straightforward, no-subscription model. Migicovsky has been using his prototype for three months, highlighting its convenience for capturing fleeting ideas without the hassle of frequent charging. The battery is said to last for years, supporting up to 14 hours of recording time. When the recording button is engaged, users can save audio clips of up to five minutes, making it ideal for jotting down short thoughts. The ring can store recordings even without a Bluetooth connection, ensuring that your ideas are safely captured. It also boasts compatibility with more than 100 languages, and users can sync their recordings to their smartphones later. As for additional functionality, the Index 01's open-source software allows for customizable button actions, such as controlling music or taking photos. Migicovsky's goal is to create a reliable tool that adapts to users’ needs rather than adding to their device clutter. With a commitment to sustainability and profitability, Migicovsky's new venture, Core Devices, is a small, self-funded team that aims to create impactful tech products. Following the success of the Pebble 2 Duo smartwatch, Core Devices is gearing up for the launch of a new smartwatch model, the Pebble Time 2. Pre-orders for the Index 01 are open until March 2026, after which the price will rise to $99. The ring is available in several colors and sizes, catering to a wide range of preferences while being compatible with both iOS and Android devices.