Recently,AI HardwareAmid the buzz in the startup world, despite mixed reviews for early products like Rabbit and Humane, a new AI device called "Friend" has piqued investor interest.
Developed by Harvard dropout Avi Schiffmann, who won a Webby Award for creating a COVID-19 tracking website, the neck-worn device is designed to be a user'sAI Companion, connects to the mobile phone via Bluetooth and continuously monitors the user's voice to alleviate loneliness.
Source: Friend
Schiffman has raised $2.5 million from several well-known investors, valuing the company at $50 million. Investors include Raymond Tonsing of Caffeinated Capital, Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas and other tech industry figures. "Friend" plans to accept pre-orders for $99 and is expected to be shipped in January 2025.
Unlike other AI devices, "Friend" is not focused on improving productivity, but rather as an emotional toy. Users can talk to the device by pressing a button and receive in-app responses. Since it is constantly listening, the device can also proactively send messages, such as wishing good luck before an interview.
Source: Friend
Schiffman believes that hardware can provide users with a better emotional connection than a simple application. He emphasized that "Friend" is not designed as a therapist or work assistant, but just an AI friend who can talk.
Although the concept of "Friend" has raised some privacy concerns, Schiffman said the company will not store recordings and users can delete text records at any time. It remains to be seen whether this device can stand out in the competitive AI hardware market.