AI CEO Strikes a Pose with His Infamously Vandalized Subway Ads | TNNEWS

Controversial AI Ads Spark Outrage in NYC

Recently, the AI company Friend launched a provocative ad campaign in the New York City subway, which quickly became a target of public disdain. The predominantly white billboards provided ample space for commuters to express their disapproval of the privacy-invading technology, leading to a flurry of handwritten critiques.

Public Reactions to AI Technology

One passerby scrawled, “Befriend something alive,” while another angrily noted, “AI wouldn’t care if you lived or died.” A third message warned, “AI will promote suicide when prompted, it is NOT YOUR ‘FRIEND.'”

Friend’s AI Pendant: A Listening Device

The company has introduced a controversial AI device that continuously listens through a microphone and sends witty AI-generated messages to users’ phones. Avi Schiffmann, the 22-year-old CEO, has embraced the attention, even posing for photos in front of the defaced ads, which were featured in The Atlantic.

Intentional Backlash?

Schiffmann claims the negative response was anticipated and part of the strategy to spark dialogue. “The picture of the billboard is the billboard,” he explained, emphasizing the irony and lack of sacredness in modern advertising.

Denial of Involvement in Vandalism

Despite speculation, Schiffmann denied any involvement in the graffiti, even though identical phrases appeared on multiple ads. Last year, Friend ignited debate over AI replacing human interaction with a video showcasing a woman seeking advice from a pendant-like device.

Mixed Reviews and Privacy Concerns

Tech reviewers have criticized the device for its limited features and antagonistic behavior. Additionally, the constant listening capability raises significant privacy concerns.

Redefining Relationships with AI

Schiffmann insists the pendant isn’t meant to replace personal relationships but rather serve as a unique blend of therapist, friend, and diary. He boldly compared the interaction to “talking to a god.”

Future of Friend’s AI Pendant

Whether the pendant will succeed remains uncertain, especially given the backlash from the subway campaign. Schiffmann maintains that less usage could be financially beneficial, stating, “Profitability is ideal, but right now it costs me an unfathomable amount of money if you actually use the product.”

Preparing for Potential Challenges

Anticipating possible legal issues, Schiffmann remarked, “I think one day we’ll probably be sued, and we’ll figure it out. It’ll be really cool to see.”

Further Reading: AI “Friend” Startup Overwhelmed With Hatred