Friend re-launches its AI pendant with a speaker that talks to you, for twice the price
The Verge·July 30, 2026
Friend has re-launched its AI pendant with a new feature: a speaker that allows it to verbally communicate with users. The updated pendant is twice the price of the original, which previously only messaged users back. Friend's re-launch is accompanied by a new ad campaign showcasing the pendant's ability to provide artificial companionship and support for personal life problems. The company had previously spent heavily on advertising and acquiring the friend.com domain, and is now seeking to revamp its product and brand image.
✦ AI-generated summary