AI Wearables in 2026: Bee, Friend, Plaud and More

Friend is among the most hyped entrants in personal AI. The $129 white pendant hangs around the neck and acts as an emotional support companion, reading tone and mood to chat with you and send proactive messages, such as wishing you luck before an interview. It has also drawn criticism, including backlash over a New York City subway ad campaign in which people vandalized the posters with messages like "surveillance capitalism." The company recently unveiled Friend 2.0, adding a built-in speaker so the device can talk back with a more distinctive personality.

Meta introduced its first AI wearable in September, a way to reach its personal assistant, Muse. It has not shipped yet and is expected to include Jolly, a playful digital avatar shown on a miniature display inside a pocket-sized device that can be carried or attached to a keychain. Nirva, founded by former Meta Reality Labs employees, focuses on personal growth instead, turning speech into a journal for $249, with orders opening in November and shipments to early users targeted for the end of the year. Omi costs $89 and runs conversations through ChatGPT for context and personalized advice, and can even be taped to the side of your head.

Plaud's NotePin is the priciest option here at $159, aimed at lawyers, journalists and students. The voice recorder is worn on the wrist or attached magnetically to clothing, saves recordings to your phone in real time, and includes 300 free transcription minutes per month, with a Pro plan at $8.33 per month.

Almost every device in this round-up depends on a subscription and an always-listening microphone, so the real cost is monthly, not just the sticker price. Plaud NotePin and Limitless target work and study; Bee undercuts them on price; Friend and Nirva sell companionship and self-reflection instead of notes.

None of these devices has an announced launch date or price in Tunisia, and several are limited to iOS or to the United States. Readers who want one should check app availability and shipping before ordering, and treat recording consent rules as a serious question, since most of these gadgets are designed to capture the people around you as well.