Meta's Charm gadget carries CEO Zuckerberg's big AI ambitions
META•Meta unveiled Muse Charm, a pocket-watch-sized device that gives users direct access to its Muse AI agent. It has a roughly 2-inch screen and a built-in 5G modem, but cannot make calls; Meta shares fell about 2% in premarket trading Thursday.
1. A dedicated Muse device
Meta revealed Muse Charm at its annual event, presenting the gadget as a way to access Muse directly without using AI apps on a smartphone. The device has a roughly 2-inch screen with a customizable Muse character and a built-in 5G modem for access without Wi-Fi, but it cannot make calls.
2. Personal AI focus
CEO Mark Zuckerberg said Meta had shifted its focus toward building devices for what he called “personal superintelligence,” which he said would come first and be bigger and more important than the metaverse. He said Muse would also soon be available across Meta's smart glasses lineup.
3. Demand remains uncertain
Analysts said the combination of AI, fashion and personalization could appeal to younger consumers, while cautioning that mass-market demand is uncertain. Similar AI handhelds have struggled: the Rabbit R1 drew attention at launch in 2024 but later flopped after overpromising on features and delivering an unreliable experience. Meta shares were down about 2% in premarket trading Thursday after gaining nearly 12% that week.
