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Introducing the ‘Friend’ AI Wearable: A New Approach to Emotional Companionship
Tech lovers have a reason to celebrate! A new AI wearable called ‘Friend AI Wearable’ has been introduced by US-based company Friend.com. Created by Avi Schiffmann, this pendant-sized device aims to tackle loneliness by offering emotional companionship rather than focusing on productivity and multitasking. Unlike previous AI wearables like the Humane AI Pin and Rabbit R1, which aimed to boost productivity and handle various tasks, Schiffmann’s Friend focuses on emotional intelligence (EQ) to provide supportive presence to the wearer.
The Friend AI Wearable: A New Era of Emotional Support
A Different Approach to AI Wearables
In recent months, AI wearables such as the Humane AI Pin and Rabbit R1 were launched but failed to impress users. While these devices aimed to enhance productivity, Friend takes a different approach by focusing on emotional support. This pendant-sized device listens to conversations and provides real-time commentary and support through text messages and push notifications.
Understanding the Friend Wearable
Friend is essentially an AI chatbot housed within a small pendant designed to develop a personality that aligns with the user. It can cheer you on, discuss a movie after you’ve watched it, or help analyze why a party didn’t go well. By emphasizing emotional connection, Friend offers a unique experience compared to other AI wearables.
Features and Functions of the Friend Device
Wearing the Friend Device
Resembling the size and shape of an AirTag, the Friend device is meant to be worn around the neck. The CEO describes it as “a pal” or “a buddy.” This affable chatbot communicates with users through text messages and push notifications on a paired smartphone, providing opinions on everything happening around them.
Always Listening Technology
A key feature of the device is its ‘always listening’ capability, as highlighted by Schiffmann in an interview with Wired. The small gadget includes a microphone that continuously listens to the surroundings by default. To ask a question, the wearer simply needs to tap and hold the device. Additionally, it provides commentary on conversations the user has with people around them.
Pricing and Availability
Preorder Details
The Friend device utilizes Anthropic AI’s Claude 3.5 model and aims to be a constant, supportive presence in the wearer’s life. It is available for preorder at $99 (approximately Rs 8,300) and is expected to be shipped in January 2025. The device comes in different colors and has a battery life of around 15 hours.
Strategic Domain Purchase
The startup reportedly raised $2.5 million and purchased the domain Friend.com for $1.8 million. Schiffmann claims this was a strategic move to reduce future marketing costs by having an easy-to-find website.
A Motivational Companion, Not a Therapist
While the device is designed to engage in motivational and encouraging conversations, it is not meant to function as a therapist. According to Schiffmann, Friend is simply an AI companion for conversation and nothing more. It offers a supportive presence without providing professional therapeutic services.
Public Reactions and Concerns
Mixed Feelings Among Users
Since its launch, the Friend device has generated mixed feelings among a section of the internet. Many people are drawing comparisons to the dystopian series Black Mirror, with some finding the idea unsettling. The fact that Friend is always listening and collects information like names, billing addresses, email addresses, and phone numbers has led some to view it as an overly-attached friend with a penchant for surveillance.
Privacy and Data Collection Concerns
According to its terms of service and privacy disclosures, the device can even send unsolicited messages, such as a random “Good luck on your interview!” or “She’ll never go for you.” Users must decide if they are comfortable with the level of intrusion and data collection that comes with using the Friend device.
About Avi Schiffmann
Avi Schiffmann is a Harvard dropout known for creating a Covid-19 tracking website that won a Webby Award. He has raised $2.5 million (approximately Rs 20 crore) in funding at a $50 million (approximately Rs 418 crore) valuation from various investors. Schiffmann’s innovative approach to AI wearables has garnered attention and sparked discussions about the future of technology and emotional support.
Friend offers a unique twist on AI wearables by emphasizing emotional companionship rather than productivity. While it provides a novel approach to addressing loneliness, potential users must weigh the benefits against privacy concerns. As the world of AI technology continues to evolve, devices like Friend highlight the diverse ways in which technology can impact our daily lives.
FAQs
1. What sets the Friend wearable apart from other AI devices?
Friend focuses on emotional support and companionship, unlike other AI devices that prioritize productivity and multitasking.
2. How does the Friend device provide support to users?
Friend offers real-time commentary and support through text messages and push notifications based on conversations and interactions.
3. Is the Friend device a replacement for professional therapy?
No, Friend is not designed to function as a therapist. It provides motivational and encouraging conversations but does not offer professional therapeutic services.
4. What are some privacy concerns related to the Friend device?
The Friend device is always listening and collects personal information, which raises concerns about data collection and privacy.
5. How much does the Friend device cost and when will it be available?
The Friend device is available for preorder at $99 and is expected to be shipped in January 2025