Avi Schiffmann, a 21-year-old tech innovator known for creating a COVID-19 tracking website, has launched an AI-powered pendant called Friend.

Friend is a neck-worn device designed to provide companionship through text communication, emphasizing emotional connection over productivity.

Schiffmann views the product as an 'emotional toy' that complements human relationships by offering critical feedback and support.

With over six months until initial shipments, the success of Friend remains uncertain, though Schiffmann has promised to share the device with reviewers.

The device is currently available for pre-order at $99, with the first shipments expected in January 2025.

Friend has a battery life of approximately 15 hours and comes in various colors, making it a potentially appealing novelty item for consumers.

However, the technology includes an always-on microphone that listens to the user's environment, raising concerns about privacy and data security.

Schiffmann addresses these privacy concerns by stating that Friend does not store audio recordings and allows users to manage their data.

The device connects to an iPhone via Bluetooth and is designed to combat loneliness by allowing users to converse with it.

Friend can engage in conversation, provide encouragement, and automatically comment on surrounding events based on the user's activities.

Despite its innovative concept, critics express skepticism about the product's long-term viability and its potential to reinforce feelings of loneliness.