Friend, the AI wearable that sends text messages about users' days, has returned with a significant update. The company announced a new version of the product, introducing a voice feature that allows the device to project a unique and consistent personality. The new retail price for this enhanced version is $249, which is substantially higher than the $99 price tag it had when it initially launched two years ago. The voice feature is demonstrated in a commercial showing a woman wearing a Friend and talking to it about her ex-girlfriend, with the necklace responding with a comment on her sexuality. A man is also shown discussing his filmmaking ambitions with his Friend, which compliments his previous work. The new version of Friend aims to provide a confidant-like experience, according to its creator, Avi Schiffmann.
Schiffmann described the purpose of Friend as an attempt to offer a kind of relationship that is not an assistant or a lover. In a recent post on X, he expressed uncertainty about what exactly the product is meant to be. He stated, 'I am interested in this kind of relationship in attempting to offer, some kind of confidant, friend, God, not really sure what it is.' This approach has been part of Friend’s bold marketing strategy, which has included a viral billboard campaign in New York City subway stations last year. The campaign, which was continually defaced, highlighted the company’s unconventional methods.
Friend is not the first AI wearable to face challenges in the market. The offering most similar to Friend was Humane Inc., which sought to replace the iPhone with its AI pin but had to shut down its business in less than a year after poor sales. Most AI wearables have failed to gain mainstream traction, according to industry observers. The success of Friend remains uncertain, as its primary function—chitchat about the day—has not clearly defined its value proposition.
Source: techcrunch
