Do We Really Need an AI Tamagotchi?

The first generation of AI hardware devices faced challenges in establishing clear consumer value. Meta's Muse Charm and OpenAI's latest hardware ventures, however, are taking a different approach—positioning always-on AI agents as everyday habits rather than standalone tools.

Both companies are banking on making AI assistants integral to users' daily routines, similar to how virtual pet games created engagement through constant interaction. The strategy marks a shift from earlier AI hardware that failed to justify its existence to consumers.