Forget the vintage watches and cute jewelry that used to be a must-have fashion accessory. We have entered the era of wearing AI friends around our necks. Yes, you heard that right – a pendant that not only looks like something Apple would have invented in its early days, but also constantly listens to you. How lucky, right?
Avi Schiffmann, the young tech wunderkind, has come out with his latest creation, "Friend," and since it's 2024, it's of course not just another piece of jewelry. No, no. It's your new best friend hanging around your neck at all times. Literally.
A faithful AI companion - because humans are no longer enough
So what does this “Friend” actually do? Well, for starters, he won't ask you why you're complaining about your boss again or why you always forget to water your plants. No, this one AI pendant he is here simply to keep you company. And while it might seem like your cat should do the job (who, let's be honest, ignores your existential crises anyway), "Friend" is here to listen to you, communicate with you over your phone, and even offer friendly advice, when you need them most. Or even when there aren't any at all.
"Productivity is so last season," says Schiffmann. "Today, no one competes with Apple or OpenAI anymore. The real treasures in life are people." Or, in his case, AI pendants. At a time when technology is freeing us from unnecessary tasks, "Friend" is here to ensure that we don't free ourselves too much. After all, why would you want to be alone with your thoughts when you can have an ever-present virtual companion reminding you that you're "killer" even if you failed the most important meeting of the day?
Avi Schiffmann, young technological wunderkind
New fad or technological craze?
Of course, this is not the first attempt in the world of AI devices that are supposed to make our lives easier. Let's remember Humane, which promised miracles and freedom from our phones, but turned out to be pretty much incapable of working unless you lived in total darkness. Then there's the Rabbit R1, designed by Teenage Engineering - a device so beautiful it should be on display in a museum, but ultimately couldn't do anything your smartphone couldn't already handle.
But here comes "Friend", which does not want to be like other devices. It won't automate tasks for you or help you finish errands you've already been putting off all week. No, “Friend” is simply here to entertain you, accompany you, listen to you, and occasionally remind you that you left your sanity in your yoga bag on the way to the electric car fast charging station.
AI Friend – A true friend who is never late for coffee
"Friend" is not here to compete with real people, although you might mistakenly think so. Imagine the situation: you're sitting at lunch with your “real” friends, but your new AI pendant is the one that texts you at the moment of truth saying, “Dude, you're killing it!” Really, what true friend could give you instant confirmation of your brilliant brainchild? I might, but I'd check Instagram first.
In an age where being self-actualized is almost synonymous with owning the newest technological gadget, "Friend" offers what we may have needed most - a non-judgmental companion who will always be there for you, no matter how boring your monologue about the benefits gets vegan donuts.
Don't be fooled
Of course, this all seems too good to be true. Schiffmann is already prepared for a wave of criticism and skeptical views. For those wondering where all this private information goes, Schiffmann assures that “Friend” does not store audio recordings or transcripts. You can, of course, change or delete anything that "Friend" has stored in its memory.
So, is “Friend” really your new best friend? Or just another one-day fad that will soon be forgotten at the bottom of your drawer? It all depends on how much you long for a constant companion who doesn't need a break, coffee, or social media approval. After all, it's not every day that a pendant around your neck says you're brilliant. And if nothing else, it still is a better compliment like the one your ex gave you on Facebook three years ago.
Accessibility and cost: AI friend for everyone?
Of course, as with everyone technological innovations, the question of accessibility arises. The “Friend” is currently available for pre-order at a price of 99 euros, which, considering all the technical capabilities and the fact that this pendant might become your best friend, is actually a good deal. No additional subscriptions (for now) means that "Friend" won't cost you a monthly membership like we're used to with other AI services. And as a cherry on top, “Friend” comes in a range of colors that will take you back to the nostalgic days of the first iMac computers. Who wouldn't want their AI friend to color match their favorite '90s memorabilia?
But be warned, if you're a true tech enthusiast, you'll have to be patient - the delivery of these AI friends it won't start until January 2025. That means you still have a few months to consider if this is really what you need in your life. But seriously, who wouldn't want an AI companion that's always there to support you, remind you that you're awesome, and maybe even help you with some life issue you'd normally only trust to a diary?
In summary, “Friend” is not just another piece of technology; is a fashion accessory, life companion and best friend all in one. But the question remains – are you ready for AI to become your new best friend? If you're at least a little bit curious (and you're not afraid of getting too wrapped up in technology), "Friend" might just be the addition you need for 2025.
