Aina launches smart ring featuring screen, joystick, and microphone for AI interaction

Hardware startup Aina has launched its new AI ring, a device featuring a screen, joystick, and microphone for AI interaction and note-taking. Priced at $399, the ring also includes a speaker for calls. Aina, which secured $5.5 million in funding in July, aims to position the ring as a comprehensive controller for AI and traditional applications. The device allows users to dictate notes, send prompts to agents, and set reminders via its mic, supporting integration with Wispr Flow or Aina's proprietary dictation engine. Unlike existing smart rings such as Pebble Index 01 and Oasis, Aina's ring adds gesture support and control over music or smart home devices like Apple TV. Apoorv Shankar, Aina’s founder, stated the design addresses the need for a better interface when interacting with proactive agents, noting current screens suit an era of browsing. Pre-orders begin Thursday at the early-bird price of $399, with shipping scheduled for January 2027; the price will increase to $499 afterward.