Handwrytten Uses AI and Robots to Recreate Personal Handwritten Notes for Customers

Handwrytten, a Tempe, Arizona-based company, is revolutionizing the concept of handwritten notes by using artificial intelligence (AI) and robots to create personalized messages. Founder and CEO David Wachs started Handwrytten in 2014, motivated by the desire to send meaningful goodbye notes to employees and clients when leaving his previous text-messaging startup. The company employs an array of robot scribes equipped with ballpoint pens that can mimic almost three dozen different handwriting styles, each with unique names such as Enthusiastic Erin and Slanty Steve. These robots vary letter shapes, line spacing, and the strokes that join letters together to avoid the "uncanny valley" effect, ensuring the notes look genuinely handwritten without being too perfect. Wachs emphasizes that the authenticity of the final product is paramount. He explains that the majority of the time, recipients cannot tell the notes were written by a machine. This approach helps the notes stand out in a world saturated with digital communications, making them a valuable tool for businesses looking to engage with customers, recruiters seeking to connect with potential hires, and nonprofits aiming to maintain relationships with donors. Currently, Handwrytten processes around 20,000 cards daily, with about 70% to 80% of its clientele comprising businesses and the remainder being individual consumers. The company saw a sales increase of about 30% in 2024, highlighting the growing demand for this unique service. Over the years, Handwrytten has introduced options for AI to write all or parts of the messages, aligning with the broader trend of AI in personal communication. Wachs acknowledges the ethical and authenticity concerns raised by some critics, including Lizzie Post, the great-great-granddaughter of etiquette expert Emily Post. Post argues that a truly handwritten note carries a unique charm and significance due to the sender's personal touch and the imperfections that come with human handwriting. However, Wachs points out that for many people, especially those with busy schedules, the choice often lies between sending a Handwrytten note or sending nothing at all. He believes that the convenience and authenticity of the service enable individuals and businesses to show appreciation and engagement, even when time is limited. Despite the debate, Handwrytten's success indicates a strong market demand for its services. The company operates with a team of 55 human workers and 185 robots, combining technology and human oversight to ensure quality and personalization. Wachs cites examples where his wife has received notes from friends using the service, and she has been impressed by the beautiful handwriting. Industry insiders note that Handwrytten's innovative approach bridges the gap between the impersonal nature of digital communication and the warmth of traditional handwritten notes. As AI continues to permeate various aspects of life, services like Handwrytten may become more prevalent, offering a solution to the increasingly crowded inbox and the desire for personal connection. The company's ability to scale and maintain high standards of authenticity sets it apart, making it a promising player in the evolving landscape of personalized communication.