Plaud has rolled out an updated version of its compact NotePin AI recorder. The new NotePin S looks nearly identical to the original but introduces one significant change: a button. Alongside this, there’s a new Plaud Desktop app designed for recording audio in online meetings, which is free for any owner of a Plaud Note or NotePin.
The NotePin S maintains the same FitBit-like design as the 2024 model and comes packaged with a lanyard, wristband, clip, and magnetic pin, allowing you to wear it however you prefer. Previously, the lanyard and wristband were sold separately, but now they’re included in the box.
In terms of size, the NotePin S is similar to the original, comes in the same colors (black, purple, or silver), offers comparable battery life, and still supports Apple Find My. Like its predecessor, it records audio and generates transcriptions and summaries, whether for meeting notes, action items, or reminders.
The key addition is the button. While the first NotePin used haptic controls that required a lengthy squeeze to initiate recording—accompanied by a short buzz to confirm— the S model simplifies the process. A long press of the button starts recording, while a quick tap allows you to add highlight markers. Plaud’s reasoning behind this shift is straightforward: buttons are less ambiguous, ensuring users know when recording begins. Original NotePin users often faced issues with starting their recordings due to the sensitivity of the haptic controls.
Ease of use is crucial for AI recorders like this, so reducing any potential friction enhances Plaud’s chances for success.
In conjunction with the NotePin S, Plaud is also launching the new Plaud Desktop application for Mac and PC, which captures audio from online meetings. This app runs in the background, activating when it detects calls from platforms like Zoom, Meet, and Teams, recording both system audio and your microphone input. You can configure it to either record meetings automatically or require manual activation, and unlike some alternatives, it doesn’t involve a bot joining your call.
Recordings and notes sync seamlessly with those from Plaud’s line of hardware recorders, creating a cohesive library of audio from your meetings, whether they’re online or offline.
Plaud Desktop is available now and is free for anyone who already owns a Plaud Note or NotePin device. The NotePin S is also available starting today for $179, which is $20 more than the original model, which Plaud plans to phase out.
