● Covered by 3 sources · 3 reportsLow impact2 negative1 neutral
Friend AI pendant re-launches with speaker and increased price
Key points
- Friend AI pendant now includes a built-in speaker for verbal responses.
- The device's price increased to $249 from its original $99 or $129.
- A $10 monthly subscription is required for memory retention beyond 30 days.
- The updated version is referred to as "Friend 2.0" by its founder.
- The pendant aims to provide companionship and combat loneliness.
Friend AI Pendant Re-Launch
The Friend AI wearable has been re-launched, introducing a significant update to its functionality. The device, which previously communicated via text messages, now includes a built-in speaker, allowing it to verbally respond to users. This new version is referred to as "Friend 2.0" by founder Avi Schiffmann.
Pricing and Subscription Changes
With the re-launch, the price of the Friend AI pendant has increased. The original device was priced at either $99 or $129, depending on the source. The new version is now available for $249. Additionally, a new $10 monthly subscription has been introduced, which is necessary for the device to retain conversation memory beyond a 30-day period.
Enhanced Interaction and Purpose
The primary enhancement in Friend 2.0 is the addition of the speaker, enabling the pendant to project a consistent personality and engage in verbal conversations. The device's core premise remains to act as a "wearable companion" and use artificial intelligence to address loneliness. Promotional materials show users discussing personal issues and ambitions with the pendant.
Background and Context
Friend initially launched two years ago. The company gained attention for its advertising campaigns, including spending $1.8 million of its $2.5 million funding to acquire friend.com and extensive advertising in New York City. The initial launch was met with public protests in NYC, which aimed to highlight concerns about technology dependence.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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How outlets covered it
Friend, a company known for its AI pendant, has released a new version of its wearable device. The updated pendant includes a built-in speaker, updated AI models, and a higher price point of $249, along with a new $10 monthly subscription for memory retention beyond 30 days.
Avi Schiffmann's AI wearable, Friend, has been updated to version 2.0, now featuring a built-in speaker for voice interaction. The device, which aims to combat loneliness, has also seen its price increase from $99 to $249.
Friend has re-launched its AI pendant, now featuring a speaker for verbal interaction and a price increase from $129 to $249. A new $10 monthly subscription allows the device to retain conversation memory beyond 30 days.