The device is not designed to be a therapist or work assistant, but rather an AI friend. Schiffmann believes that constant companionship is a key use case for AI. The startup initially planned to create a $600 pendant called Tab to track people and transcribe meetings, but pivoted to Friend earlier this year. Despite the device's "always listening" feature, Schiffmann assures that the company does not store any recordings and users can delete texts at any time.
Key takeaways:
- Avi Schiffmann, a Harvard dropout and creator of a COVID-19 tracking website, is developing an AI device called Friend, designed to be a companion to combat loneliness.
- The device, which is worn around the neck, connects to your phone via Bluetooth and constantly listens to you, allowing for interaction and proactive messaging.
- Schiffmann has raised $2.5 million in funding at a $50 million valuation from various investors, and the company will start taking preorders for the basic white version of the device, priced at $99.
- Originally, Schiffmann aimed to create a pendant called Tab to track people and transcribe meetings, but pivoted to the Friend device. Customers who preordered Tab have the option to preorder Friend or receive a refund.