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

Friend 2.0 now includes a built-in speaker and a more consistent voice personality.

The AI wearable’s price has jumped from $99 to $249.

Avi Schiffmann is pitching Friend as more than a chat device, but its purpose is still unclear.

The relaunch shows continued interest in AI companion wearables despite weak consumer traction.