Core Insights - The article discusses the innovative AI social platform Pengu, developed by the startup Born, which aims to enhance human emotional connections through a unique "co-parenting" model that combines AI, virtual nurturing, and real social interactions [2][3][5]. Group 1: Company Overview - Born, originally named Slay, transitioned from a social platform focused on "anonymous praise" to an AI-driven companion model in 2023, addressing the social anxiety prevalent among Generation Z [15][16]. - As of September 2025, Pengu has attracted over 15 million users globally, achieving high ratings and recognition as a leading AI character application [3][16]. Group 2: Product Features - Pengu employs a "dual co-parenting" mechanism, requiring two real users to jointly nurture an AI pet, fostering communication and emotional connections between users [5][6]. - The AI technology allows for deep customization of each Pengu's personality, interests, and traits, enabling it to serve various roles such as a confidant, a nurturing child, or an engaging playmate [6][7]. Group 3: User Engagement - The platform offers diverse interactive features, including a home interface displaying the AI pet's status, a wardrobe for customization, and mini-games that enhance user engagement and emotional bonding [7][9][11]. - Users can complete daily tasks to earn experience points, which unlock advanced features and foster a sense of responsibility and connection [11][13]. Group 4: Business Model - Pengu operates on a "freemium + subscription" model, with free users facing limitations and ads, while subscription options provide an ad-free experience and additional features [13][14]. - Subscription pricing includes options for individual and dual users, with annual plans priced at approximately $59.99 and $69.99, respectively [13]. Group 5: Funding and Future Plans - In September 2025, Born secured $15 million in Series A funding led by Accel, with participation from Tencent, bringing total funding to over $25 million [24][25]. - The company plans to expand its product ecosystem with a new AI social product aimed at the 16-21 age group, potentially integrating with platforms like TikTok to enhance cultural relevance [17][24].