A new AI-powered necklace, named “Friend,” has been introduced to provide companionship to users, especially those feeling lonely. Unlike typical virtual assistants like Alexa or Siri, Friend focuses solely on keeping you company rather than performing tasks or searching the internet.
Key Features of AI-Powered Necklace Friend
Text-Based Interaction: The device responds to user prompts via text messages on a smartphone. Users can start a conversation by tapping the pendant, which then sends a text response to their phone.
Initiates Conversations: Friend can also initiate conversations, forming “thoughts” and reaching out to the user when connected via Bluetooth.
Privacy Measures: The device ensures privacy with no audio or transcripts stored beyond the immediate context, and all data is end-to-end encrypted.
Compact Size: Similar in size to an Apple AirTag, making it easy to wear and carry.
Price and Availability
Cost: The necklace is priced at $99 for pre-order.
No Subscription Fee: There are no ongoing subscription fees associated with the device.
Pre-Order and Shipping: Available for pre-order now, with shipping expected to begin in 2025.
Region: Currently available only in the US and Canada.
Additional Information about AI-Powered Necklace Friend
Creator: Avi Schiffmann, a 21-year-old who previously made headlines for creating the first global COVID-19 tracking website.
Funding: The project has raised $2.5 million in funding at a $50 million valuation, with investments from notable figures such as Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas.
Comparison to Other Devices: Friend joins a growing market of AI-powered wearables like the Rabbit R1 and Humane AI pin, which offer various functionalities ranging from answering questions to language translation.
The Friend pendant represents a unique approach to AI companionship, providing users with a text-based conversational partner. This innovative device aims to help alleviate loneliness by offering a new way to interact with AI technology.
