Former Nothing employees unveiled the Relay Q at IFA in Berlin, a compact AI-powered microphone designed to facilitate voice-to-text dictation and computer control through whisper-level audio input.

Key Points

• The Relay Q is a handheld, lighter-sized microphone that functions as a bridge between voice commands and desktop software.
• The device features a detachable design that converts into a wearable magnetic pin for hands-free use on clothing.
• It integrates with Relay’s AI desktop software, which is currently powered by Google Gemini and exclusive to macOS.
• Users can preorder the device for $150, a package that includes a MagSafe remote and a 12-month subscription to Relay Unlimited.
• The hardware is scheduled to begin shipping to early supporters in January 2027.

Why it Matters

The Relay Q represents a shift toward specialized hardware designed to make voice-controlled AI more practical and socially acceptable in professional environments. By focusing on tactile design and whisper-level audio capture, the device attempts to overcome the privacy and ergonomic barriers that have historically hindered the adoption of voice-based computing.