"Can AI help neurodivergent adults connect with each other? That's the bet of a new social network called Synchrony, which believes AI and a well-designed social network with the right safeguards can reduce social atomization and calm the overwhelming cacophony of socializing online."
"Launching February 19, the social network debuts during a moment when social media, chatbots, and doomscrolling has made digital communications a hot button topic for parents. "No other app for the neurodiverse is focusing primarily on reducing social anxiety and encouraging friendship," says cofounder Jamie Pastrano. "I think that's the biggest piece of it, and no other app is focusing on building an authentic community." Synchrony also has support from Starry Foundation and Autism Speaks, two large U.S. advocacy groups, and approval from the Apple App Store."
""I was really blown away about what they're trying to do," says Bobby Vossoughi, president of the Starry Foundation. "These kids are isolated and their social cues are off. They're creating something that could really change this community's lives for the long term.""
Synchrony launches February 19 as an AI-assisted social network designed to help neurodivergent adults form friendships and reduce social anxiety. The platform emphasizes design safeguards and curated community features to lower the sensory and social overload common on mainstream platforms. Synchrony has backing from Starry Foundation and Autism Speaks and obtained Apple App Store approval. Founder Jamie Pastrano developed the idea after witnessing her autistic son Jesse struggle with planning and social cues during the transition to adulthood. Research indicates roughly one in five people have neurodevelopmental differences and face increased loneliness during life transitions.
Read at Fast Company
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