A new startup named Sandbar, founded by veterans of Meta’s human-computer interface teams, is reimagining how we interact with technology and AI. Their first product, the Stream smart ring, is being positioned as a discreet and private tool for capturing spontaneous ideas and controlling digital environments. Unlike always-listening smart speakers, Stream is designed with privacy at its core, activating its sensitive microphones only when the user physically presses and holds a touchpad on the device.
The ring is worn on the index finger of the dominant hand, allowing for intuitive, one-handed operation. In demonstrations, the device has proven capable of accurately transcribing whispered thoughts, even in noisy environments, directly into its companion iOS application. This “mouse for voice” concept aims to solve the common problem of losing a fleeting idea while fumbling for a phone or waking a device.
Beyond simple transcription, Sandbar is integrating a sophisticated AI layer. The Stream app features an AI chatbot that not only converses with users about their recorded thoughts but can also help organize and edit them. A unique “pinch to zoom” feature in the timeline allows users to review their ideation history over days or weeks. Adding a deeply personal touch, the AI assistant can be customized to adopt a vocal tone similar to the user’s own voice.
Leading the charge are co-founders with formidable credentials. CEO Mina Fahmi, whose career includes pivotal roles at Kernel and Magic Leap, has partnered with CTO Kirak Hong, formerly of Google and neural interface pioneer CTRL-Labs. The duo honed their expertise at Meta following its acquisition of CTRL-Labs, applying their knowledge of next-generation interfaces to create this wearable.
Sandbar has announced that the Stream ring will begin shipping in Summer 2026, with a limited number of units available for pre-order. The company is adopting a transparent subscription model; a three-month Pro subscription with unlimited AI interactions is included, after which it continues for $10 per month. Users can, however, switch to a free tier at any time without losing access to their core data. This launch signals a significant step toward more seamless, personal, and private human-computer interaction, moving beyond the screen and into the realm of subtle gesture and voice.
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