New AI ‘Friend’ Necklace Designed to Combat Loneliness

A new vision for AI technology has emerged from US start-up Friend, which introduces “Emily,” a necklace wearable designed to offer constant companionship. This amulet-like pendant listens to its wearer throughout the day and sends conversational text messages based on their activities.

Friend launched for pre-order on July 30, coinciding with International Friendship Day. Company founder Avi Schiffmann revealed his motivation in a blog post, sharing his personal experiences with loneliness. Schiffmann developed Friend after a business trip in Tokyo with a productivity-focused AI prototype, seeking a more companionable interaction.

Friend’s AI listens constantly and sends unprompted messages, creating a seamless integration of a digital friend into daily life. Users can also press the device to talk directly and receive responses. The pendant’s supportive tone is showcased in promotional videos, emphasizing its role as a positive companion.

Despite concerns about constant audio recording, Schiffmann believes it is essential for natural interaction. Friend’s simple, rounded design includes a light-up central element and a Bluetooth microphone, with data processed in the cloud using end-to-end encryption. Notably, there is no backup for the device—if lost or damaged, the Friend is gone.

Schiffmann, known for creating the first US Covid-tracking website and a platform to match Ukrainian refugees with hosts, aims for Friend to offer limited yet meaningful functionality. Unlike other AI products like the Rabbit R1 and Humane AI Pin, which disappointed users with unmet expectations, Friend focuses solely on conversational companionship.

However, experts are skeptical. Dr. Elena Touroni, co-founder of The Chelsea Psychology Clinic, cautions that while the digital necklace can simulate friendship, it lacks the depth of human interaction. “Regular connection with those we care about is essential for our health and happiness,” she emphasized.