Kevin Rose’s simple test for AI hardware — would you want to punch someone in the face who’s wearing it?

Kevin Rose, a veteran investor and general partner at True Ventures, offers a straightforward yet insightful test for evaluating AI hardware investments: if wearing the device makes you want to "punch someone in the face," it’s likely not worth investing in. Rose’s perspective stems from his experience with wearables like Oura rings and his skepticism toward the current surge of AI wearables that often disregard social norms around privacy and emotional impact. He emphasizes that successful hardware must resonate emotionally and be socially acceptable, not just technologically advanced. Rose criticizes AI devices that are “always on” and intrusive, sharing a personal anecdote about abandoning the Humane AI pendant after it complicated a personal argument by recording conversations. Rose also warns about the broader societal implications of AI, comparing the current AI adoption phase to the early, reckless days of social media. He highlights concerns about AI’s impact on reality perception, such as photo apps that erase real-world elements, potentially distorting memories and truth. With his own children, Rose navig