In a move signaling renewed interest in AI-powered wearables, Amazon has agreed to acquire San Francisco-based startup Bee, known for its innovative wristband that transcribes and summarizes real-world conversations using artificial intelligence.
What Bee’s AI Wristband Does
Bee’s standout product is a $50 AI-enabled bracelet designed to:
Record and transcribe conversations automatically
Generate summaries, to-do lists, and actionable AI insights
Offer hands-free and real-time assistance based on ambient conversations
The device includes a mute option for privacy, ensuring users can control when the bracelet listens or stays silent.
Amazon Confirms the Acquisition
Amazon confirmed the acquisition after Bee’s CEO and co-founder, Maria de Lourdes Zollo, posted the news on LinkedIn. While the financial terms remain undisclosed, Amazon has acknowledged its intent to collaborate with Bee to give users greater control over the device’s data and functionality.
Zollo stated:
“We imagined a world where AI is truly personal, where your life is understood and enhanced by technology that learns with you.”
She also expressed gratitude toward Amazon Devices Chief Panos Panay, hinting that Bee will join his division post-acquisition.
A Fresh Start After Halo
This is not Amazon’s first attempt at wearable tech. In 2023, the company shut down its Halo wristband, a health-focused wearable that failed to gain traction. Amazon also experimented with Echo Frames, smart glasses featuring Alexa.
With the acquisition of Bee, Amazon appears ready to re-enter the wearable space—this time with a stronger focus on personal AI, productivity, and contextual awareness.
Amazon’s AI Vision Gets More Personal
Much of Amazon’s current AI development happens within its Amazon Web Services (AWS) unit. Acquiring Bee could serve as a strategic step to extend AI deeper into everyday personal tech. This follows a broader industry trend, including OpenAI’s $6.5B acquisition of Jony Ive’s AI device startup io.
Bee was founded in 2022, making this a fast-track success story and an intriguing addition to Amazon’s expanding portfolio of intelligent devices.
