The heart of r1 is its operating system, rabbit OS, built on the Large Action Model (LAM). This technology is a first-of-its-kind, enabling the device to infer and model human actions on computer interfaces. LAM learns from users' intentions and behaviours when interacting with specific apps, mimicking, and executing these actions swiftly and reliably.

rabbit Founder and CEO Jesse Lyu remarked: “Today is the beginning of a new era in human-machine interaction. We are now moving towards an intuitive app-free experience with the power of AI. Our Large Action Model doesn't just generate text in response to human input – it generates actions on behalf of users to help us get things done.”

rabbit OS, underpinned by LAM, introduces ‘rabbits’ – personal AI agents capable of handling a wide range of digital tasks. This contrasts sharply with existing voice-based assistants limited to basic functions. rabbit OS can perform complex tasks, such as conducting in-depth research, booking travel, or completing online shopping transactions, providing a richer and more comprehensive digital assistance.

The r1, developed in collaboration with Teenage Engineering, boasts a unique design reminiscent of retro gadgets like the Tamagotchi. It features a 2.88-inch touchscreen, a push-to-talk button, and a scroll wheel for navigating ‘cards’ that interact with various activities. Notably, the device includes ‘rabbit eye’, an AI-enhanced, motorised vision system capable of advanced computer vision applications and video calls.

The r1 operates independently without a smartphone, offering both Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity. It is equipped with a 2.3GHz MediaTek Helio P35 processor, 4GB of memory, 128GB of storage, and a USB-C port. The device is designed for all-day usage, with a long-lasting battery.

rabbit Inc. emphasises privacy and security in its design. The device does not store user credentials and complies with major industry standards for data security and encryption. r1’s hardware design follows a responsible approach, with features like a non-recording mode unless activated and a camera that blocks its lens by default for increased privacy.

The r1 is priced at $199, with pre-sales commencing from January 9 and no additional monthly subscription required. US shipments will start in late March, with global orders to follow later in the year.