Imagine never forgetting a single insightful quote or crucial detail from a whirlwind conversation – that's the revolutionary promise of Plaud's new NotePin S wearable AI device that's set to transform how we capture ideas on the fly. As a journalist diving into the chaos of CES 2026, I'm thrilled to explore this gadget as my secret ally against information overload. But here's where it gets intriguing: could this tiny tool redefine productivity, or is it just another step toward relying on tech for basic human functions?
Katie Collins, Principal Writer
Katie is a seasoned UK-based journalist specializing in news and features. Officially, she's CNET's European correspondent, delving into tech policy and the influence of major tech giants across the EU and UK. Unofficially, she's our go-to expert on Taylor Swift's world. Her writing also spans positive tech applications, ethical dilemmas, human rights, the pressing climate crisis, robotics, travel adventures, and the evolving landscape of digital culture. London's Evening Standard once dubbed her a 'living synth' for having a microchip implanted in her hand – talk about embracing the future!
3 min read
CES (https://www.cnet.com/tech/ces-2026-preview-expectations/) consistently ranks as one of the most frenzied periods for CNET reporters, and I'm no exception. Picture this: dashing from one booth to another, engaging with multiple companies in a single hour, and diving into deep, rapid-fire discussions about innovative products.
Often, these chats kick off before I've even managed to fish out my recorder and hit record. This leaves me scribbling frantic notes or key phrases in my notepad – a test of my memory and vision when I later try to decode my own messy handwriting while crafting articles.
But this year, things are different. At CES 2026, AI-driven note-taking firm Plaud is unveiling the NotePin S, a versatile wearable that attaches to your collar, wrist, neck, or shirt via magnet, seamlessly recording dialogues as you navigate your daily routine.
Plaud kindly provided me with an early version of the NotePin ahead of the event, allowing me to trial it while navigating the bustling show floors. Similar to the original NotePin and the Plaud Note Pro (https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/standalone-ai-devices-are-back-baby-the-note-taking-plaud-note-pro-proves-it/), launched in August, this device syncs with your smartphone over Bluetooth, delivering conversation transcripts directly into the Plaud app.
I anticipate the NotePin S – a compact, pill-shaped gadget tinier than a USB drive – to revolutionize my CES experience. For beginners wondering how it works, think of it as an intelligent helper that uses AI to convert spoken words into written text, making it easier to review and recall details without manual note-taking. In a pre-show briefing, Plaud shared that the device performed admirably at this year's Dreamforce conference, where its twin microphones, boasting a reach of about 9.8 feet, handled noisy expo environments effectively.
To start recording, a simple long press on the front activates it. And this is the part most people miss: the push-to-highlight button lets me flag important moments mid-conversation, making those gems a breeze to locate in the transcripts afterward. Imagine interviewing a startup founder and instantly marking a game-changing idea – no more sifting through hours of audio!
I'm also pleased with the array of bundled accessories, ensuring compatibility with various attire. In the packed halls of CES, a neck lanyard might be my go-to for easy access, but on jacket days, the lapel clip could be ideal. For seated interviews, the wristband allows me to highlight points with minimal disruption, keeping the flow natural.
Back at my home office, Plaud has another exciting innovation: the Plaud Desktop, an AI note-taker that seamlessly merges in-person and online meetings by capturing discussions directly.
No more awkward bots invading your video calls – you know the drill. Instead, it perches on your computer, detects active meetings, records them quietly, and generates detailed summaries in your Plaud account. To clarify for newcomers, this tool uses advanced algorithms to listen and summarize, turning lengthy sessions into concise, searchable notes without you lifting a finger.
What appeals most is the unified system: all my notes, whether from the wearable or desktop, are stored and organized in one convenient spot, streamlining my workflow.
Both the NotePin S and Plaud Desktop roll out right away, with the pin priced at $179 (£159).
But here's the controversial twist: While this AI marvel promises efficiency, is it eroding our natural memory skills? Are we trading authenticity for convenience in an age where privacy concerns loom large? What do you think – is embracing AI wearables like this a smart evolution, or a slippery slope toward over-reliance? Share your opinions in the comments; I'd love to hear if you agree, disagree, or have a counterpoint to add to the debate!
