The new AI-powered necklace designed by Avi Schiffmann helps combat loneliness, and it aspires to be a companion and friend in need.
Upon its introduction on July 31, the “Friend” device has garnered various responses from the public.
The puck-shaped device, connected to a phone via Bluetooth, continuously listens to its user and can be spoken to by touching a button on the device. The device responds to the user’s current activities through text messages in its launch video.
However, some are highly skeptical about the concept. A few users on X have compared the launch video to an episode of the British television series “Black Mirror,” which delves into near-future dystopias incorporating science fiction technology.
In the interim, some are referring to it as the “adult incarnation of Tamagotchi” because of its similar spherical shape, although the devices’ actual functions are vastly different.
Avi Schiffmann, a tech entrepreneur who gained recognition in 2020 for developing a website that monitored the transmission of COVID-19, was the individual responsible for the design and introduction of the device.
Schiffman informed TechCrunch that the device is not intended to serve as professional assistance or improve productivity, unlike numerous other AI devices.
Its sole objective is to serve as a virtual companion with whom users can converse and nothing more.
The device is presently available for pre-order on the official friend website, with a price tag of $99.
Schiffman initially intended to develop an AI-powered pendant known as “Tab” to assist users in transcribing meetings and monitoring others.
The device generated $100,000 in pre-orders for $600. Nevertheless, Schiffman subsequently resolved to focus on the friend device exclusively and is now providing a trade-in for the friend device, as well as complete refunds for the original Tab device.
In the interim, the market has received disappointing results from the launch of AI-powered devices and wearables in recent months.
Rabbit, a pocket-sized “human-machine interface” device, was introduced in April to a deluge of unfavorable feedback.
Marques Brownlee, a prominent tech reviewer, condemned the Rabbit device in an April 30 video as “unfinished, unhelpful, and barely reviewable.”
Rabbit AI, the company responsible for the device, was accused of conducting a purported NFT scam by YouTube investigator Coffeezilla in May. The company denied the allegations.
Additionally, tech evaluators decimated Humane’s AI pin. This wearable “multi-modal” device aids users in capturing video, sending messages, and making calls, after its release in November of last year.
