Fabian Kamberi, CEO of Berlin-based AI startup Born, believes most AI companions push users into isolation. He sees the next stage of development in shared experiences that help build stronger human ties.

Pengu, Born’s flagship app, embodies this approach by allowing two people to co-parent a digital pet. The freemium app now has more than 15 million users, although paid subscription figures have not been disclosed. The shared activity is designed to engage users beyond solitary interaction.

Born, formerly named Slay, has raised $25 million from Accel, Tencent, and Laton Ventures. The company is preparing to launch new AI companions—including one designed for learning—and expand into the U.S. market with a New York-based team.

Additionally, Born is working on a new product for 16- to 21-year-olds, offering culturally attuned AI companions that act as digital friends and share social media content. Kamberi expects strong viral adoption, with investors viewing the company as a leader in socially intelligent AI.