Everywhere you look, from the latest computers to even everyday cars, the label “AI-powered” is being slapped onto products. Even Logitech, known for its mice and keyboards, is adding dedicated “AI” buttons to some of its devices. Yet, the company’s CEO, Hanneke Faber, openly questions the value of the current wave of standalone “AI” gadgets.
Faber believes many of these devices, like the Rabbit A1 and the Humane pin, are attempting to solve problems that simply don’t exist. This sentiment echoes the experience of reviewers and early adopters, who found the Rabbit R1 to be a significantly limited alternative to a smartphone – even less capable than simply using the ChatGPT app on a phone.
The Humane pin fared even worse, facing criticism for its questionable usefulness, compounded by issues like poor battery life and overheating. Both devices, once touted as revolutionary, have largely disappeared from the market, their initial hype fading quickly.
Logitech isn’t entirely avoiding the “AI” trend, however. They offer an “AI Edition” of their M750 mouse, featuring a dedicated assistant button, and an “AI” Prompt Builder integrated into their Logi Options+ software. This allows for customized actions across a range of their keyboards and mice.
Interestingly, Logitech’s newest releases – the MX Master 4 mouse and the Alto Keys 98M keyboard – are notably free of “AI” branding. The Alto Keys 98M, designed for both Windows and Mac, doesn’t even include a Copilot button, a surprising omission given its cross-platform compatibility.
In a market saturated with products adding “AI” features seemingly for the sake of it, Logitech’s restraint is a welcome change. It suggests a focus on genuine innovation rather than simply chasing a buzzword.
Looking ahead, Faber indicated that Logitech doesn’t anticipate further price increases in the immediate future, despite a significant jump in prices following the implementation of tariffs. The company opted for a swift price adjustment, believing it was better to address the issue directly rather than delay it.
However, the rising costs of chips and memory, fueled by the booming “AI” industry, could create pricing pressures in 2026. Even lower-end devices may be affected, potentially leading to increased costs for consumers despite Logitech’s current stance.
