Wearable AI War Heats Up: Meta Buys Spy-Like ‘Conversation Recorder’ Startup
By Passman Akpos Meta Platforms has acquired Limitless, a fast-rising AI wearable startup known for its pendant-style device that records and transcribes real-world conversations — underscoring Meta’s deepening bet on AI-powered consumer hardware.
Limitless co-founder and CEO Dan Siroker confirmed the deal in a blog post Friday, saying the two companies share a vision of delivering “personal superintelligence” through everyday devices. Financial terms of the purchase were not disclosed.
The San Francisco-based startup — formerly known as Rewind — raised more than $33 million from investors including Sam Altman and Andreessen Horowitz before the acquisition.
A New Front in Meta’s AI Hardware Ambitions
The move comes as Meta signals a more aggressive push into next-generation AI-enabled wearables. Earlier this week, the tech giant hired longtime Apple design veteran Alan Dye, in a move widely interpreted as a direct strike at Apple’s historic dominance in consumer hardware aesthetics.
Meta already partners with eyewear maker EssilorLuxottica through its Ray-Ban and Oakley brands to produce AI-powered smart glasses. The acquisition of Limitless deepens Meta’s ambition to embed advanced AI into everyday accessories.
“Limitless will accelerate our work to build AI-enabled wearables,” a Meta spokesperson said.
How Limitless Works
The company’s key product is a small “pendant” that clips onto clothing or hangs on a lanyard. It continuously records conversations and generates transcripts and searchable summaries through a companion app — acting like an AI-enhanced memory.
This category of technology is marketed as an “AI assistant” designed to boost productivity and retention of information.
What Happens to Current Users?
Although Meta and Limitless say they will continue supporting existing users, Limitless will stop selling new devices. Current users will be asked to agree to updated privacy terms to maintain service — a key step for a product that involves constant recording of personal interactions.
A Strategic Buy
The acquisition underscores Meta’s broader pivot toward personal AI — a shift CEO Mark Zuckerberg has repeatedly emphasized. As the company invests heavily in AI research and next-generation hardware, Limitless’ technology could become foundational to Meta’s future wearables ecosystem.
With billions already spent building AI infrastructure and wearable platforms, Meta’s long-term bet appears clear: tomorrow’s superintelligent personal assistant won’t live in a phone — it will live on you.
