It seems that despite the lukewarm reception that we’ve seen from other standalone AI devices, there are some who believe that this tech could be the future. In fact, the folks at Plaud are back with its latest iteration, the NotePin S , which represents a slight update over its predecessor.
Meet the new Plaud NotePin S
For those unfamiliar, the original Plaud NotePin is an AI-powered device that you clip onto your clothes. At its core, it is basically a recording device that helps users take notes and make transcripts. Recording devices aren’t new, but leveraging the power of AI will make these devices more accurate.
With the new NotePin S, one of the biggest and most obvious changes is the inclusion of a physical button. This button acts as a highlight button, meaning that if at any point you think that a conversation, meeting, or lecture is important or significant, press the button to let the built-in AI know.
This means that instead of the AI deciding what’s important, you do. The design of the NotePin S doesn’t deviate too far from its predecessor. It is still small enough to be clipped onto a shirt or jacket. However, it can also be worn as a wristband or necklace. In addition to unveiling the device at CES 2026 , the company also introduced a new Plaud Desktop app for Mac and PC.
The app helps users capture audio from online meetings and can detect whenever you receive calls from apps like Zoom, Meet, and Teams. Users also have the option of setting it to record automatically for more seamless functionality.
Where Plaud succeeds where others have failed
This isn’t the first time we’ve come across AI wearables or devices. We’re sure many of you remember devices like the Humane AI Pin or Rabbit R1. Both were extremely hyped, but for the most part, failed to live up to it. This is because those devices could be described as being overly ambitious.
In Plaud’s case, its approach is more focused and simple: note-taking. We all do note-taking, and if there’s a device that can make it more seamless, why not? You could always use your phone , but you run the risk of it running out of battery for other tasks. If you’re interested in the new NotePin S, the company is available for purchase for $179.
