Humane, the technology startup known for its OpenAI-powered AI Pin, has recently let go of 10 employees in a move aimed at cost-cutting. The company’s leadership has stated that this decision is part of a broader organizational restructuring necessary for the next phase of growth.
Regarding the layoffs, Bethany Bongiorno, CEO of Humane, expressed appreciation for the affected team members in a LinkedIn post. Bongiorno emphasized that these changes were essential for the company’s evolution and growth. However, while Bongiorno described the job cuts as a part of a strategic refresh, sources reveal that the affected individuals were informed that it was indeed a layoff.
In addition to the staff reductions, Humane announced that founding CTO, Patrick Gates, will be transitioning into an advisory role to dedicate more time to his family. The company also reshuffled its leadership structure, promoting new executives to head the hardware, software, and people departments.
Humane, founded in 2019 by Bethany Bongiorno and Imran Chaudhri, both former Apple employees, raised over $200 million in funding from notable figures in Silicon Valley, including OpenAI CEO, Sam Altman. Best known for its recently unveiled AI Pin, a screenless device positioned as a smartphone substitute, the startup has already started accepting preorders for their AI-powered product, priced at $699 with shipments scheduled to commence in March.
While Humane’s decision to reduce staff may be viewed as a necessary measure to manage costs, it also highlights the challenges emerging tech startups face as they navigate growth and market demands. As the company continues to evolve, the leadership’s restructuring efforts aim to position Humane for future success and technological innovation.
The source of the article is from the blog smartphonemagazine.nl