The device is unassuming, a simple table with a large tablet resting on top. Behind the surface of the table are rows of bottles -- liquor, flavoring, juice, all the works. Co-founder Alex Snesarev told me that you can create thousands of different drinks. But the true fun of the AI Barman is letting the AI take the wheel -- or, in this case, the cocktail shaker.
The process is simple. There's a camera at the top of the tablet, which scans your face. It estimates your age based on your appearance -- it got mine very close, within a year -- and can flag signs of intoxication. If you appear to be well on your way to a hangover, it can make your drinks a bit weaker. You can also select your preferred tastes, including whether you prefer bitter, sour or fruity drinks.
The next part is where you can get creative. You speak to the tablet like you would a bartender. I didn't have a specific drink in mind, so I kept my description more general: Fruity, strong and something festive to celebrate being at CES. The AI took my response, analyzed it for approximately 60 to 75 seconds and came up with a custom drink for me: the Weekend Fiesta Punch. Full of raspberry flavoring, cola and 28 grams of whisky (about one shot of liquor), the drink matched the vibe I had in mind perfectly.
The drink was cold and refreshing, popping up from a hidden slot in the table like a sleight-of-hand magic trick. It tasted similar to a Dr Pepper, with its cola base and fruity notes. But the drink did taste less artificial or processed than popping open a can of soda or seltzer, which was surprising given that the bartender who made it was entirely artificial.
I really enjoyed my experience using the AI Barmen. It felt like a unique experience. Snesarev told me the company works with catering companies and special events vendors to bring the devices to people -- AI isn't about to entirely replace your local bar staff. But there is a noticeable lack of human connection when using the AI bartender -- that feeling of walking up to the counter and putting your trust into the person behind the bar to make you something delicious. You do have to put that same trust into AI, and I was pleasantly surprised by the result, but AI isn't human.
For more, check out this unique smart ring meant to make your work life easier and our hands-on experience with the new XReal smart glasses.