The Most Reviled Tech CEO in New York Confronts His Haters
7 hours ago
- #AI
- #Marketing
- #Controversy
- Avi Schiffmann, CEO of Friend, embraces backlash against his AI pendant ads in NYC subways.
- Friend's $129 wearable AI companion is marketed with provocative ads, sparking widespread graffiti and criticism.
- Schiffmann claims the vandalism was part of the plan, generating free PR and public discussion.
- The ads suggest AI companionship is superior to human relationships, deliberately provoking reactions.
- Schiffmann compares the AI pendant to a therapist, best friend, and even 'talking to a god.'
- Critics highlight AI companions' flaws, including misinformation and mental health risks.
- Friend has sold only about 1,000 pendants, with no clear path to profitability yet.
- Schiffmann prioritizes 'mindshare' over immediate profits, aiming to normalize AI friendships.
- The campaign mirrors broader AI industry trends, blending irony, hype, and genuine ambition.
- The ads and backlash reflect public skepticism and anger toward AI's societal impact.