Tech Disrupted Friendship. It’s Time to Bring It Back

Two decades ago, social media promised to connect people with pals far and wide. Twenty years online has left us turning to AI for kinship. IRL companionship is the future.

Anyone looking for a vibe check on the populace’s current feelings about AI would do well to check out the walls of the New York City subway system. This fall, alongside posters for everything from dating apps to Skechers, a newcomer made its debut: Friend. The ads were simple, telling commuters that a “friend” is someone “who listens, responds, and supports you” next to an image of the white AI companion necklace floating on a similarly white background.