Have you heard of the Rabbit R1? It’s another attempt at creating an “AI box” that aims to replace your smartphone with a voice command device that doesn’t run any apps. However, it seems like this device, much like the Humane AI Pin, is facing significant challenges right out of the gate. Critics argue that it doesn’t solve any real problems, has poor battery life, and lacks essential features.
A recent examination of the Rabbit R1 software by Mishaal Rahman from Android Authority revealed that despite its ambitions, the device essentially runs on Android. While it technically doesn’t use the proprietary Google code and can’t access Google Play, it operates on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) codebase, which includes the core functionalities of Android without Google’s involvement.
Interestingly, Rahman managed to get the Rabbit R1 software running on a Pixel 6 smartphone, highlighting that the device’s interface is essentially an Android app. However, Rabbit Inc., the company behind the device, seems displeased with this revelation. They stated that they do not support “third-party clients” and warned against unauthorized emulation of their software.
Despite the company’s reluctance to disclose details about their technology stack, using AOSP as the foundation for the Rabbit R1 makes sense from a technical standpoint. AOSP provides the necessary functionalities for mobile devices without the need for Google’s involvement. This aligns with Google’s strategy to promote Android as an open-source platform.
While Rabbit Inc. aims to distance itself from traditional app-based operating systems, the use of AOSP raises questions about the device’s originality. Nevertheless, from a technical perspective, leveraging AOSP seems to be a pragmatic decision for a device like the Rabbit R1.
It’s worth noting that other similar devices, like the Humane AI Pin, also utilize AOSP. The flexibility and openness of AOSP make it a popular choice for various hardware projects, offering a viable alternative to traditional operating systems like Windows.
