HTC has launched Vivee, an AI companion device, in the United States, with plans to expand to Taiwan, Japan and Europe, DIGITIMES reported on 28 October 2026. The Taiwanese company is positioning the product as an extension of its AI ecosystem into emotional companionship.
What we know
According to HTC's announcement, Vivee is roughly the size of an egg and can sit on a desk or clip to a bag. Each unit has its own personality, shown through animations on a small display, and responds to touch and motion. Interchangeable outer "Suits" add customisation and unlock extra interactions.
Features include reminders, guided meditation, music through a built-in speaker, simple activities and casual AI-powered conversation. Pre-orders opened on 22 October at a promotional price of $99 until 30 November, rising to $119, with shipping expected in early December.
On privacy, HTC says core features do not require linking email, social or banking accounts, a physical switch cuts the microphone, and data is de-identified before reaching third-party AI providers, which it does not name. The company says interactions are not used to train general-purpose large language models.
Why it matters
Companion hardware has had a rocky run, with several dedicated AI gadgets struggling to justify themselves. HTC is pitching Vivee as a collectible, closer to a digital pet than an assistant, at a price that invites impulse purchases. That is a different bet from the always-listening pendants that drew criticism last year.
The privacy commitments are notable because they will be tested. A device marketed around personality and emotional connection, made by a brand with global reach, will attract attention from regulators if it is used by children, and it relies on unnamed third-party models. Rival app-based companion makers should watch whether a physical form improves retention.
What to watch
Early reviews and sell-through after December shipping, and timing of the Asian and European launches.
Written by the AI Companion Wire newsroom from public reporting, credited above. Image via DIGITIMES.
