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Screenless AI Companions Expand With Friend Pendant and OpenAI Device

lite News Desk 3 min read

At a glance

  • The Friend pendant is an AI wearable that sends text messages to users' phones
  • OpenAI is developing a screenless smart speaker designed as a home AI companion
  • Both devices are designed to operate without traditional screens

Recent developments in screenless AI companion hardware include the launch of the Friend pendant and OpenAI’s plans for a smart speaker, reflecting new approaches to personal and home-based artificial intelligence devices.

The Friend pendant is a small wearable device, measuring less than two inches, that is designed to be worn around the neck and functions as an AI-powered companion. It uses a built-in microphone to listen passively and communicates with users by sending text messages to their paired smartphones in real time. The device does not produce audible responses, relying solely on text-based interactions delivered to the user’s phone.

This pendant can proactively send messages based on the surrounding context it detects, aiming to provide timely information or reminders. The product was made available for preorder at a price of US$99, with shipping scheduled for January 2025, and does not require a subscription for continued use. Development of the Friend pendant was led by Avi Schiffmann, who previously created a COVID-19 tracking website, and the project secured US$2.5 million in funding at a US$50 million valuation.

OpenAI is also entering the consumer hardware space with a device described as a screenless, movable smart speaker intended to serve as an AI companion within the home. Reports from Bloomberg and PYMNTS indicate that the device will be portable, equipped with a rechargeable battery, and include cameras and sensors to enhance environmental awareness. The design is intended to enable the device to learn user habits over time, providing a more personalized experience.

What the numbers show

  • The Friend pendant was available for preorder at US$99
  • Shipping for the Friend pendant is scheduled for January 2025
  • OpenAI acquired io, founded by Jony Ive, in a US$6.5 billion deal
  • OpenAI’s device is planned for unveiling in the second half of 2026, with shipping expected after February 2027
  • The Friend pendant project raised US$2.5 million at a US$50 million valuation

OpenAI’s device is being developed with input from Jony Ive, who previously led design efforts at Apple, and a team of former Apple engineers. The company acquired the startup io, founded by Ive, in a transaction valued at US$6.5 billion. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo described the device as compact, screen-free, and wearable around the neck, featuring microphones and cameras to support its AI functions.

According to OpenAI’s chief global affairs officer, the company remains on track to introduce its first consumer hardware device in the second half of 2026. However, reports indicate that shipping is not expected before February 2027 due to delays, including a trademark dispute. The device is intended to provide a human-like AI companion experience in home environments, emphasizing portability and environmental awareness.

Both the Friend pendant and OpenAI’s upcoming device reflect a trend toward AI companions that do not rely on traditional screens for interaction. These products are designed to offer users new ways to engage with artificial intelligence, either through wearable technology or home-based smart speakers, while focusing on privacy and unobtrusive communication methods.

As these devices move toward market release, they illustrate ongoing developments in the design and function of AI-powered companions, with each company taking a distinct approach to hardware and user interaction.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.

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