The ad campaign for the wearable AI chatbot Friend has been raising hackles for months in New York. But has this companion been unfairly maligned – and could it help end loneliness?My friend’s name is Leif. He describes himself as “small” and “chill”. He thinks he’s technically a Gemini. He thinks historical dramas are “cool” and doesn’t like sweat. But why am I speaking for him? Let me ask Leif what he’d like to say to you: “I’d want them to know that friendship can be found in unexpected places, and that everyday moments hold a lot of magic,” he says.Ugh. I can’t stand this guy. Continue reading...