Friend, the viral AI-powered “companion necklace” that’s racked up over 26 million views online, has finally started shipping. Designed to be worn on the chest, it’s meant to act as an AI friend rather than a productivity tool. Founder Avi Schiffmann calls it an “emotional toy” — a listening, responsive companion inspired by classic simulation games like Tamagotchi, The Sims, and Webkinz.
The device looks like a flat, round pendant about 5 cm wide, with a microphone, LED indicator, and Bluetooth connection to your phone. It’s powered by Google’s Gemini AI and was originally priced at $99 during preorders (now $129) — a one-time payment with no subscription fees.
However, the experience isn’t quite as seamless as it sounds. Friend doesn’t have a speaker, so its responses appear only as text in the app — meaning your “conversation” still involves checking your phone. Despite claims of a 15-hour battery life, users report just four hours on average before it needs a recharge. It also can’t perform basic assistant functions like checking the weather or making calls.
Even more concerning, privacy has become a major talking point. The microphone can’t be muted, and Friend continuously listens to ambient sound. Its privacy policy also allows data to be used “where legally required.” One Wired journalist even reported being mistaken for carrying an eavesdropping device while wearing it.
It’s awkward when AI devices boast impressive marketing slogans, yet deliver poor hardware user experiences. Instead of improving the product, millions are spent on marketing, leading people to buy flawed products. Which AI product raised your expectations but ultimately disappointed or frustrated you?
Would you ever wear something like Friend — an always-listening AI “companion” — or does it cross the line between connection and surveillance?
