HTC is launching VIVEE, an egg-shaped digital AI companion measuring 60 by 60 by 50 millimeters and weighing 114 grams, BusinessWire reported. The device is available for pre-order starting October 22, priced at an introductory rate of $99 in the United States.
The hardware is designed as a lifestyle collectible rather than a phone replacement or a living room smart speaker. It features an OLED high-resolution screen that acts as an expressive face, shifting animations based on physical interactions. Gyroscopes and touch sensors detect taps and turns, while a soft vibration motor responds to user touch.
Pricing and Shipment Dates in the United States
The $99 promotional price runs until November 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time, after which the regular price increases to $119. Shipments begin in early December 2026.
Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Near Field Communication (NFC). The device charges via a USB-C cable included in the box and carries an IPX4 water resistance rating against splashes and light rain.
Sci-Fi Story Inspires HTC Desktop Companion Design
Cher Wang, chair and chief executive officer of HTC, stated that the concept originates from a science fiction story about beings made of pure energy traveling to Earth to discover what it means to be human. The company built the device to function as a desktop companion that fits in one hand or clips onto a backpack.
Interchangeable outfits called Suits alter the device’s physical appearance. Built-in NFC tags within these accessories automatically update the on-screen face and unlock styles specific to each suit.
Hardware Switches and Data Stripping Protect User Privacy
Unlike smart speakers that monitor audio continuously, VIVEE omits a camera entirely. For audio privacy, a physical hardware switch silences the microphone and speaker instantly without requiring users to open software menus or phone applications.
Core functions do not require connections to email, social media, or banking accounts. When the device utilizes third-party AI services, HTC strips out personally identifiable information before transmitting data. The company states that user interactions do not train general-purpose language models.
Age Limits and Technical Requirements Restrict VIVEE Use
HTC specifies that VIVEE is built for users aged 18 and older. The AI-generated responses can contain errors or unexpected outputs, and the device cannot provide medical, mental health, legal, or financial advice.
Advanced features require a VIVE account, a companion mobile application, a compatible smartphone, and an internet connection. Availability outside the United States remains unconfirmed in official company announcements.
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