Amazon is snapping up AI wearables startup Bee, according to a LinkedIn post by Bee co-founder Maria de Loudres Zollo. Amazon confirmed the acquisition to TechCrunch but stressed the deal isn’t finalized yet.
Bee raised $7 million last year. It sells a Fitbit-like bracelet for $49.99 plus a $19/month subscription, and an Apple Watch app. The device records conversations (unless muted) to create reminders and to-do lists.
Bee’s bigger goal? Build a “cloud phone” mirroring your smartphone, with access to your accounts and notifications for smarter reminders and messaging. 
“We believe everyone should have access to a personal, ambient intelligence that feels less like a tool and more like a trusted companion. One that helps you reflect, remember, and move through the world more freely,” Bee states on its website.
Other startups like Rabbit and Humane AI have tried similar AI wearables but stumbled—especially with price tags as high as $499 for the Humane AI Pin. Bee’s $50 price point makes it an easier buy for curious users.
Amazon offered Bee employees spots inside the company. This signals Amazon wants to expand into AI wearables beyond Echo speakers and voice assistants.
OpenAI, Meta, and Apple are also pushing AI hardware and smart glasses. These gadgets trigger privacy alarms because they record sounds around you.
Bee’s privacy policy says users can delete data anytime. Audio recordings aren’t saved or used for AI training, but the app learns from user data to operate. Bee claims it records only voices with verbal consent and plans features to auto-pause recording based on topics or locations.
It’s unclear if Amazon will keep these privacy rules intact. The e-commerce giant’s history with handling user data raises concerns: Amazon previously shared Ring camera footage with police without owner consent or warrants, and faced FTC charges over employee access to customer videos.
Amazon is moving fast to stake its claim in AI wearables. Watch this space.
