A.I. Companion Ads for Friend.com Flood NYC Subway, Fueling Backlash and Vandalism

The New York Times - TechnologyTuesday, October 7, 2025 at 9:53:36 PM
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A.I. Companion Ads for Friend.com Flood NYC Subway, Fueling Backlash and Vandalism
The recent ad campaign for Friend, a wearable A.I. companion, has taken over New York City's subway system, sparking both interest and controversy. While the ads aim to promote the innovative technology, they have also led to instances of vandalism, highlighting a backlash against the pervasive nature of such advertising. This situation raises questions about the impact of technology on public spaces and the boundaries of marketing in urban environments.
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