AI Companion Device Sparks NYC Subway Ad Vandalism as Critics Deface $1M Campaign
Summary
A $129 AI companion pendant that listens to conversations and offers supportive responses through an app triggers massive backlash as New York City subway riders deface $1 million worth of ads with anti-AI graffiti, sparking heated debate over whether artificial companions combat loneliness or dangerously replace human connection.
Key Points
- A 23-year-old CEO creates the Friend pendant, a $129 AI companion device that listens to users' conversations and provides supportive responses through a smartphone app, selling around 5,000 units so far
- The device sparks major backlash in New York City where $1 million worth of subway ads are defaced with graffiti reading messages like 'AI is not your friend' and 'Talk to a neighbor'
- Critics worry AI companions could replace human relationships and raise privacy concerns, while supporters argue the technology helps combat loneliness and could become normalized alongside human friendships