AI Necklace by Friend Aims to Combat Loneliness

AI hardware is all the rage in startup land, promising to tackle diverse challenges with varying results. A new AI device by Friend seeks to address an emotional issue: loneliness.

Friend, a device worn around the neck, is designed to act as a companion. Developed by Avi Schiffmann, it has garnered attention and funding from notable investors. How does this $99 gadget aim to make its mark? Let’s delve in.

A Unique Approach to AI Companions

The Friend device, priced at $99, is not focused on productivity. Instead, it connects to your phone via Bluetooth and constantly listens to you. It aims to combat loneliness by being an ever-present companion.

Once you tap on the device’s walkie-talkie button, it listens and sends an in-app response, like a text. Friend can also proactively send messages, such as wishing you good luck before an interview. It’s all about emotional support.

Behind the Development

Avi Schiffmann, the creator of Friend, is a Harvard dropout known for creating a COVID-19 tracking website. Through Friend, Schiffmann aims to provide an emotional toy rather than a productivity tool. His vision highlights the unique use case of AI for emotional connection.

Schiffmann has secured $2.5 million in funding with a valuation of $50 million. Investors include prominent figures like Raymond Tonsing from Caffeinated Capital and Aravind Srinivas, CEO of Perplexity.

“I believe hardware around your neck makes it easier to talk to an AI companion rather than just having an app,” Schiffmann mentioned.

Always Listening but Respecting Privacy

The Friend device is designed to be a constant companion, without being a therapist. It listens and responds but does not store recordings, and users can delete texts anytime.

Previously, Schiffmann planned to develop a $600 pendant called Tab, which would keep track of people and transcribe meetings. However, he pivoted to creating Friend, leaning into the ‘always listening’ feature.

Market Reception and Future Plans

AI hardware has had mixed receptions, with notable examples like Rabbit and Humane facing setbacks. Meanwhile, other start-ups like Limitless and Bee AI are exploring screenless AI wearables.

Friend’s unique focus on addressing loneliness might carve out a successful niche. The company is set to start taking preorders for its basic white version, expected to ship in January 2025.

A New Direction in AI

What sets Friend apart is its focus on emotional support. Unlike other AI tools designed for productivity, Friend aims to be a companion, offering comfort and interaction as needed.

By tapping into the emotional aspects of AI, Friend could provide a new way to use technology. The ongoing development and upcoming release will reveal its impact on users.

Investor Support

Friend has garnered impressive investor backing, securing $2.5 million in funding with a $50 million valuation. Notable investors include Cory Levy, founder of Z Fellows, and Logan Kilpatrick, a senior product manager at Google.

These investments highlight the growing interest in AI applications that prioritize emotional and mental well-being rather than just productivity.

Friend’s AI necklace offers a fresh take on technology’s role in our lives. Focused on companionship and emotional support, it aims to make a meaningful impact.

As preorders start and the device hits the market, it will be interesting to see how users respond to this innovative AI companion.

About The Author

Emmanuel Kesse

See author's posts