'Friend' launches as creepy AI gadget that could be straight out of Black Mirror
Friend, a brand new AI gadget that does away with a display altogether, is now available. The hardware is very simple: Friend is a flat, round device that is attached to a necklace and has both integrated microphones and a touch-sensitive surface on the front.
When the touch surface is touched, users can communicate directly with Friend, whereby the answers are not given by voice, but are displayed as a text message on the connected smartphone. The main reason why Friend is not simply an app is probably due to the fact that the microphones listen in around the clock and are likely to process speech better when placed in front of the chest than in a trouser pocket. Friend also expresses its opinions via text message without prompt.
The promo video embedded below looks like it could be straight out of a "Black Mirror" episode. Potential users willing to share your life with AI are advised to take a look at the manufacturer's privacy policy, which is not yet very detailed. At least the audio recordings are supposed to be end-to-end encrypted. Friend must be connected to an Apple iPhone via Bluetooth in order to be used; Android smartphones are not yet compatible. Details on battery life are still pending.
Price and availability
The Friend AI collar can now be pre-ordered for $99 on the manufacturer's website, but the company is currently only ships to the US and Canada, and delivery will not begin until the first quarter of 2025. After AI gadgets such as the Rabbit R1 or the Humane Ai Pin received scathing criticism, interested customers should definitely wait for initial reviews before purchasing such a product.
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