The Rabbit R1, a once-hyped AI device, has fallen short of expectations and suffered from several issues. The CEO, Jesse Lyu, overpromised and underdelivered with the Rabbit R1, leading to disappointment among users. While some features like Vision, which allows the device to identify objects, are impressive, they are already available on smartphones through apps like ChatGPT Plus.
Moreover, marquee features such as ordering through Uber and DoorDash or launching Spotify songs did not work well. The Rabbit R1 also faced a critical security flaw, further damaging its reputation. This issue is not unique to the Rabbit R1, as many tech companies employ the strategy of promising features before delivering them, only to have it backfire.
However, Rabbit has not given up on the R1 and has issued extensive updates, introducing a “beta rabbit mode.” This mode aims to enhance the R1’s capabilities, providing more thoughtful and comprehensive responses to complex questions. It can also be used with the Vision feature, allowing the device to deliver advanced responses based on what it sees through the camera.
To test the beta rabbit mode, the author asked the Rabbit R1 various questions. Initially, it worked well and provided film and book recommendations, as requested. However, a week later, the photo-filled responses were replaced with rough, raw replies. As of a final retest, the Rabbit R1 was back in working order.
The author also tested the device’s ability to curate a travel itinerary and hunt for deals. The Rabbit R1 successfully provided a useful two-day itinerary for Athens, and it pointed to a discounted air fryer on Amazon, although the cheapest price was found elsewhere.
Additionally, the Rabbit R1 was tested for its ability to analyze nutrition labels. While it initially failed to recognize a cup of Ramen Noodles, it later provided information about its nutritional facts, highlighting its high salt and saturated fat content.
Surprisingly, the Rabbit R1 lacked the ability to set timers and alarms at launch but has since added this functionality.
Despite some of its initial capabilities, the Rabbit R1’s chance to captivate the masses has come and gone. The device faced criticism for not offering anything beyond what a smartphone can do. If it were released as a $20-a-month app, it might have had more success. However, the Rabbit R1’s reputation has been tarnished, and it is unlikely to experience a revival.
The tech industry needs to take note of the negative reviews and address the issue of overpromising and underdelivering. Consumers are tired of half-baked products and want more reliable and refined technology. Only time will tell if the Rabbit R2 or other similar devices will learn from the Rabbit R1’s mistakes and regain the trust of consumers.
