[ 2025-12-29 22:34:08 ] | AUTHOR: Tanmay@Fourslash | CATEGORY: STARTUPS
TITLE: Plaud Note Pro AI Recorder Targets Professionals with Slim Design
// Plaud's Note Pro is a credit card-sized AI-powered recording device that stores audio locally and provides transcription services, appealing to users in professional settings.
- • Plaud Note Pro measures 0.12 inches thick and weighs 30 grams, fitting easily into wallets or attaching to phones via MagSafe.
- • Device offers 64GB onboard storage for independent recording, four directional microphones with 16.4-foot range, and up to 30 hours of continuous use.
- • Company reports over one million units shipped, with more than 50% of customers subscribing to pro transcription services at $179 per device.
Plaud Introduces Slim AI Recording Device for Professional Use
Plaud has released the Note Pro, an AI-powered voice recorder designed for professionals attending meetings and conferences. Priced at $179 and available for pre-order since August 2023, the device emphasizes portability and independent functionality, distinguishing it from wearable AI gadgets.
The company claims to have shipped more than one million units of its recording devices overall, with over 50% of customers upgrading to paid subscriptions for advanced features. This follows the original Note model's launch two years prior, amid a growing market for AI-assisted audio capture tools.
Design and Portability Features
Measuring just 0.12 inches thick—equivalent to three stacked credit cards—and weighing 30 grams, the Note Pro is marketed as the thinnest AI recording device available. Its credit card form factor allows it to slip into wallets or attach magnetically to the back of smartphones using a provided ring accessory compatible with MagSafe-enabled iPhones and certain Android devices. A wallet-like pouch is also included for added protection.
Unlike many wearable AI devices that require constant phone connectivity, the Note Pro operates autonomously. It features 64GB of internal storage, capable of holding extensive audio without immediate transfer to a paired device or cloud upload.
Audio Capture and Processing Capabilities
The device incorporates four MEMS microphones for omnidirectional audio pickup, with an advertised effective range of 16.4 feet. Testing at conferences has demonstrated clear recordings from distances beyond the stage, aided by a dedicated voice processing unit that handles noise suppression, voice isolation and echo cancellation.
Battery performance supports prolonged use: up to 30 hours of continuous recording or 60 days on standby from a single charge. Charging takes two hours via a proprietary USB-C cable. After 15 days of intermittent use—including interviews, talks and phone calls—the device retained 55% battery in one reported instance.
A small display indicates recording status, battery level and allows users to mark key moments during sessions via a button press. Haptic feedback confirms start and stop actions, providing clear signals to others in meetings about active recording.
Transcription and Integration Options
Plaud provides 300 minutes of free monthly transcription through its AI system, with customizable templates for various professional needs, such as meeting summaries or task lists. Users can create personal templates or export raw audio to third-party services.
Accuracy in transcription has improved, and access to recordings, transcripts and notes is now available via a web interface. Previous issues with audio playback linked to specific transcript words have been resolved.
While pendant-style wearables may offer simpler carrying, the Note Pro's design enables superior microphone placement and versatility, particularly for in-person professional interactions.
Market Context
The Note Pro enters a competitive landscape of AI voice devices, including Omi, Bee—recently acquired by Amazon—and upcoming products like the Stream ring and an AI ring from former Pebble founder Eric Migicovsky. Plaud's focus on non-wearable, professional-grade tools positions it as an alternative emphasizing reliability and discretion.
The device launched two years after the original Note, reflecting steady iteration in a sector where success remains uncertain for many entrants.
Tanmay is the founder of Fourslash, an AI-first research studio pioneering intelligent solutions for complex problems. A former tech journalist turned content marketing expert, he specializes in crypto, AI, blockchain, and emerging technologies.