The social robot Jibo is being revived in spirit as iKairos, a wearable or desk-mounted AI device from Lingverse. WIRED reports that the company, formerly Ling AI, has raised $29 million to build a camera-equipped assistant that turns real-life moments into AI-generated images and video.
Unlike the original Jibo, which sat in the home and used movement and speech to feel personable, iKairos is built for the generative AI era. It can be worn as a pendant, clipped to clothing, or placed on a table mount, where it can observe its surroundings and act more like an AI journal.
The company says users will be able to ask questions, offload tasks, and use modern voice-assistant features. Details remain limited, but Lingverse expects the device to cost about $199 to $249, likely with a subscription for additional AI features.
The product captures both the appeal and unease of always-on personal AI hardware. A device that records daily life may create charming summaries, but it also raises hard questions about privacy, consent, and whether memories should be remade as synthetic media.