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Aina, a hardware startup, has introduced a smart ring designed to make interacting with artificial intelligence agents easier. Unlike conventional smart rings focused mainly on health and fitness tracking, the new device includes a display, joystick, microphone and speaker, allowing users to manage digital tasks without constantly reaching for their phones.
Simply called the AI Ring, the device costs USD 399 during its introductory pre-order period. Aina plans to begin shipping it in January 2027, after which the price will increase to USD 499. The ring's microphone lets users record notes, set reminders, dictate messages and send instructions to AI agents. It also supports voice-based interactions with services such as Wispr Flow and Aina's own dictation software. The built-in speaker allows users to take phone calls through the device.
Aina has added a small screen to display smartphone notifications and show which applications the user is controlling. A joystick provides navigation, while gesture controls can trigger different actions depending on the application running on a connected phone or Mac.
The ring can also control music playback and compatible smart home devices, including Apple TV. Users can interact with apps and manage certain functions without opening them directly on another device.
The startup is positioning the product as a controller for both AI-powered and conventional applications. Its founder, Apoorv Shankar, believes existing phones and laptops were designed around browsing and opening apps, rather than interacting with AI agents that can proactively perform tasks.
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Before developing the ring, Aina worked on Mirage, a three-key controller that offered context-aware shortcuts for Mac applications. The company has now applied some of those ideas to a wearable format.
Aina is entering a market where several startups are experimenting with dedicated AI hardware. However, many of the ring's software features are still being developed, leaving questions about how useful it will become in everyday situations. The company raised USD 5.5 million in July. Its latest product reflects growing interest in devices designed specifically for managing AI agents.