Friend, the lonely AI wearable, returns with a new voice and a much bigger price tag

Core Impact Points

• Friend, a wearable AI device, has been revamped with a new voice feature and a higher price tag of $249.
• The device's purpose is still unclear, with its creator, Avi Schiffmann, describing it as a 'confidant, friend, God' rather than an assistant or lover.
• The new version of Friend comes with a built-in speaker that can project a unique and consistent personality to its user.
• The device's marketing strategy has been bold, with a recent billboard campaign in the New York City subway system going viral after being defaced.
• Most AI wearables have failed to catch on with the mainstream, with the similar product Humane Inc. shutting down its business in less than a year after poor sales.
• The US market may be skeptical about the device's value proposition, given its high price tag and unclear purpose.