Friend, the AI wearable created by Avi Schiffmann, is back with a notable update: it can now speak to users instead of relying only on text-based interactions. The return of the device also comes with a higher price, signaling a more ambitious version of the product than the one introduced two years ago.
When Friend first appeared, the idea was to build an AI wearable that users could talk to and receive text messages from about their day. That concept stood out because it pushed artificial intelligence into a more personal, always-present form factor, aiming to act less like a traditional gadget and more like a companion.
The latest version appears to move further in that direction by giving the device a voice. That change could make Friend feel more conversational and immediate, especially for people interested in AI products designed for regular, everyday interaction rather than occasional use on a phone or computer.
At the same time, the bigger price tag may raise questions about how much consumers are willing to pay for an AI wearable companion. As interest in personal AI hardware continues to grow, Friend’s return highlights both the appeal and the challenge of turning conversational AI into a product people want to wear and use daily.
