The technology company Sandbar has successfully raised $13 million in funding to launch its first product, the Stream, a voice-controlled smart ring. Founded by two former engineers from Meta, the company aims to revolutionize personal interaction with technology by creating devices that blend seamlessly into everyday life.
Mina Fahmi, the CEO of Sandbar, introduced the Stream as a solution to the challenges of spontaneous thought capture. The ring, which is designed to be worn on the index finger, features built-in microphones and a touchpad that activates only when pressed, ensuring user privacy and intentional usage. In a demonstration, Fahmi showcased how users can record ideas simply by pressing and holding the touchpad, with even whispered notes being accurately transcribed into an accompanying iOS app.
Transforming Interaction with Technology
The Stream is described as “a mouse for voice,” offering users a hands-free way to capture notes, interact with digital assistants, and control media. The device’s minimalist activation style reflects a growing demand for privacy among wearable technology users. Rather than constantly listening, the Stream engages only when prompted, allowing for a more natural and comfortable user experience.
Fahmi’s background in human-computer interfaces, including roles at Kernel and Magic Leap, influenced the design of the Stream. He recognized that traditional journaling methods often posed barriers to capturing spontaneous thoughts. By creating hardware that only listens when desired, Fahmi aims to eliminate these obstacles.
The device’s AI companion enhances the user experience by engaging in conversation, assisting with note refinement, task creation, and the organization of reflections. Users can navigate discussions from days or weeks past with ease, thanks to intuitive pinch-to-zoom features. To provide a personal touch, the assistant’s voice is specifically tuned to resemble the user’s own.
Pricing and Future Prospects
Beyond its primary functions, the Stream also serves as a music controller, making it convenient for users who are on the go. The device is available for pre-order, with a starting price of $249 for the silver model and $299 for the gold model. A subscription service offering extended features will be available for $10 per month after a three-month free trial.
With financial backing from True Ventures, Upfront Ventures, and Betaworks, Sandbar is well-equipped to establish itself in the competitive wearable technology market. Fahmi emphasizes the importance of data security, stating that the Stream includes encryption across all tiers and allows for easy exports to applications such as Notion.
As the demand for innovative and privacy-conscious wearable technology continues to grow, Sandbar’s Stream may represent a significant step toward integrating personal communication with everyday technology use. The product is expected to begin shipping in summer 2024, marking a new chapter in how users interact with devices.
