Avi Schiffmann Introduces "Friend": A Wearable AI Companion
Image Credits: Friend
Avi Schiffmann, the innovative mind behind the acclaimed tracking website Covid-19, is back with a new venture aimed at redefining human-AI interaction. His latest creation, “Friend,” is a wearable AI companion designed to provide continuous emotional support and companionship.
Friend is an AI pendant designed to be worn around the neck in the shape of a blood cell. This always-listening device is intended to be a close companion that engages in all types of conversations, from the most superficial to the deepest and most meaningful. It proactively gathers the context of the user's daily life and provides feedback through push notifications.
The concept grew out of Schiffmann's desire for deeper and more meaningful interaction with AI. During a moment of solitude in a Tokyo hotel, he envisioned an AI that transcended typical productivity-focused assistants. He wanted an AI that felt like a true companion, one that would travel with him and support him.
How Friend Works
The pendant has a touch light that allows direct interaction. Users speak to the artificial intelligence and responses are sent by text message via a smartphone app. The permanent listening function allows Friend to understand the user's life and integrate into it, offering relevant advice and companionship throughout the day.
The device was launched on the United Nations' International Friendship Day, in keeping with the theme of human solidarity. Schiffmann's vision goes beyond hardware; his goal is to create a digital relationship company that offers interactions with AI friends on Friend.com. He invested $1.8 million in securing this domain, emphasizing the importance of trust and authenticity to his product.
Friend is based on Meta's open source Llama 3.1 AI model, which Schiffmann believes outperforms existing AI models such as ChatGPT. Unlike other AI wearables, this companion focuses on emotional connection rather than productivity enhancement. It is designed to offer critical information and support, functioning as a complementary companion rather than a substitute for human friendships.
Schiffmann has successfully raised $2.5 million from investors, including notable names like Raymond Tonsing of Caffeinated Capital and Cory Levy of Z Fellows. His unique approach to pitching—centered on vision and potential rather than traditional business metrics—has resonated with Silicon Valley investors.
