"It's a small, round, white object that is supposed to be hung from the neck. Wherever you go, it goes too, listening to and gathering data from everything you say and do in order to "know" you as much as possible. Then, when you "talk" to Friend, it should deliver the most personal and helpful answers through its companion app. And you get all of that for $129."
"It's not denied that these technologies are always recording and gathering information and data-on the contrary, that's the whole point. The complete erosion of individual and collective privacy, we're told, is actually good. These devices can keep us and our communities safe. They can help us. They can be the truest friend, the most loyal companion, the biggest cure for loneliness we've ever had-as long as we give over our whole lives to them."
"It's nearly impossible to use the New York City subway system these days without encountering ads for a new AI start-up called Friend. They're plastered everywhere, with messages like "I'll ride on the subway with you" and "[friend] noun. Someone who listens, responds, and supports you." Friend CEO Avi Schiffmann boasted on X that this was "the largest NYC subway campaign ever,""
The Friend necklace presents itself as a wearable AI companion offering constant companionship and understanding. The device is a small, round, white object worn around the neck that continuously listens and gathers data from users to build an intimate profile. The startup ran an extensive subway advertising campaign in New York City to normalize the product. The offering retails for $129 and pairs with a companion app to deliver personalized responses. Marketing frames pervasive surveillance as beneficial, promising safety and relief from loneliness while asking users to surrender extensive personal and communal privacy.
Read at The Nation
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