The second version of the viral Friend AI necklace has arrived. It is louder than the original but far less interesting. The device aims to be a constant companion, yet it struggles to justify its existence.
Friend is a wearable pendant that listens to conversations and responds via text. The first model sparked curiosity online for its unusual concept. This new iteration adds a speaker that talks out loud.
The louder design draws more attention to the wearer. It broadcasts AI-generated comments in public spaces. This makes private interactions feel like performances for strangers.
Hardware improvements include a brighter light and updated microphone. The pendant still clips to clothing like a small medallion. Battery life remains roughly a day with regular use.
The companion app connects via Bluetooth and requires a monthly subscription. Responses often feel generic or mistimed. The AI lacks memory of past chats, so conversations restart from scratch.
Social reactions range from amusement to annoyance. Some users report awkward encounters when the device speaks unprompted. Others find the constant listening unsettling.
The product raises familiar questions about privacy and dependency. It collects ambient audio and sends data to cloud servers. Clear details about retention and sharing are hard to find.
Competitors like Rabbit and Humane offer similar ambient AI gadgets. Most have struggled to find a mainstream audience. Friend’s niche appeal may face the same limited lifespan.
For now, the louder Friend necklace feels like a novelty. It generates buzz but little practical value. The promise of a true AI companion remains out of reach.
