Plaud NotePin S Launches with AI Meeting Notes and Apple Find My
Just ahead of CES 2026, hardware startup Plaud has unveiled the Plaud NotePin S, an upgraded AI-powered wearable notetaker designed for professionals who live in meetings—whether in-person, hybrid, or fully remote. Priced at $179, the NotePin S builds on the original 2024 model with a physical control button, expanded wearability options, and Apple Find My integration, giving users more flexibility and peace of mind. If you’ve ever missed a critical detail during a brainstorming session or client pitch, this tiny pin might be your new secret weapon.
A Physical Button Makes All the Difference
One of the biggest upgrades in the NotePin S is its tactile control button—a simple but game-changing addition. Unlike the original NotePin, which relied entirely on voice commands or app controls, the S model lets you tap to start or stop recordings and double-tap to “highlight” key moments. This feature mirrors the functionality found in Plaud’s pricier Note Pro, making it far easier to flag action items or quotes during fast-paced conversations without fumbling for your phone.
Wear It Your Way—Clip, Lanyard, Pin, or Wrist
Plaud clearly understands that professionals have different style preferences and workflows. That’s why the NotePin S ships with four attachment options: a magnetic pin, a lanyard, a clip, and even a wristband. Whether you’re presenting on stage, walking through a warehouse, or sitting in a boardroom, you can choose how to wear your AI notetaker. This flexibility makes it especially useful for journalists, consultants, educators, and healthcare workers who need hands-free recording in dynamic environments.
Apple Find My Support Solves a Real Pain Point
Losing a tiny device is easy—especially one you clip to your lapel or slip into a pocket. That’s why Plaud’s addition of Apple Find My compatibility is more than just a nice-to-have; it’s essential. If your NotePin S goes missing, you can now locate it using the Find My app on your iPhone or iPad, just like you would with AirPods or a MacBook. For frequent travelers or those juggling multiple devices, this feature alone could justify the upgrade.
Same Core Tech, Smaller Footprint
Under the hood, the NotePin S retains the same 64GB of onboard storage and dual MEMS microphones as its predecessor, capable of clear audio capture within a 9.8-foot radius. Battery life clocks in at 20 hours of continuous recording, which is slightly less than the Note Pro but still more than enough for a full week of meetings. The device is also smaller and lighter than the Pro, prioritizing portability over extended range—making it ideal for mobile professionals rather than large-room presenters.
AI-Powered Transcriptions, with a Generous Free Tier
Plaud continues to offer 300 minutes of free AI transcription per month, covering everything from interviews to team syncs. The transcriptions are impressively accurate, even in moderately noisy environments, and support speaker diarization (i.e., it labels who said what). Users can export notes to Google Docs, Notion, or email, and the app highlights “starred” moments—those double-tapped highlights—for quick review. While a subscription unlocks unlimited transcription, the free tier remains generous for light to moderate users.
Designed for the Always-On Professional
Plaud positions the NotePin S as the go-to tool for “people constantly on the go”—a demographic that includes tech reviewers, sales reps, researchers, and event attendees. Its discreet size and silent operation mean you can record without interrupting the flow of conversation. Unlike pulling out a phone or laptop, wearing a NotePin feels natural, even in formal settings. Early adopters at events like CES or industry summits could use it to effortlessly capture product specs, executive quotes, or competitor insights.
How It Compares to the Note Pro
While the Note Pro offers a longer 40-hour battery and a 16-foot recording range, it’s bulkier and costs significantly more. The NotePin S trades those extras for ultra-portability and style versatility, making it the better choice for daily carry. If your meetings happen in small rooms or one-on-one settings, you likely won’t miss the extra range. Plus, at $179, it’s priced accessibly for freelancers and small teams who need smart audio capture without enterprise pricing.
A Strategic CES 2026 Play
Plaud’s timing is no accident. Launching just before CES 2026 in Las Vegas, the company is betting on AI wearables becoming a major trend this year. With rising demand for ambient computing tools that reduce digital friction, the NotePin S fits neatly into the “invisible assistant” category. Unlike smart glasses or watches that demand attention, this pin works passively—listening, transcribing, and organizing so you can stay present in the moment.
Real-World Use Cases Beyond Meetings
Though marketed as a meeting notetaker, the NotePin S shines in unexpected scenarios. Journalists can use it during press conferences or street interviews. Students can record lectures without drawing attention. Even creators filming B-roll can capture ambient dialogue or director notes hands-free. Its offline recording capability (transcription happens later via the app) ensures it works reliably in areas with spotty connectivity—a common pain point at international events or remote sites.
Availability and Final Thoughts
The Plaud NotePin S is available now directly from Plaud’s website and will be showcased at CES 2026 next week. With its blend of thoughtful design, practical AI features, and multi-wear flexibility, it addresses real usability gaps in the digital notetaking space. While it’s not the most powerful device in Plaud’s lineup, it might be the most human-centered—prioritizing ease, discretion, and reliability over raw specs.
For professionals drowning in meeting notes and to-do lists, the NotePin S isn’t just another gadget—it’s a quiet ally that helps you listen better, remember more, and stay focused on what really matters: the conversation itself.
