Particle.news
Download on the App Store

AI 'Friend' Floods NYC Subways With 11,000 Ads as Founder Avoids Rider Conversations

The campaign promotes a $129 always-listening AI necklace powered by Google’s Gemini.

Overview

  • Outfront confirmed more than 11,000 placements across stations and trains, and the MTA said it is replacing vandalized posters as a routine practice.
  • The stark white posters were designed to invite reactions, and an online gallery has cataloged dozens of defaced ads with anti‑AI messages.
  • Founder Avi Schiffman declined to speak with passersby at a Manhattan station, telling Gothamist he was "tired of talking to New Yorkers."
  • Schiffman said the device encrypts user data, the company cannot access recordings, there are no subscription fees, and roughly 400 units ship each week.
  • Schiffman has embraced the backlash in media appearances, posing in front of defaced ads and describing the negative reactions as part of the intended conversation.