Ensoul vs Friends

Ensoul is a local-first AI companion app that keeps a companion’s identity, memory, mood, and history as documents on the user’s device. It runs on Android, macOS, Windows, and the web. Users can connect directly to a provider or use one key to access Claude, GPT, Gemini, Grok, DeepSeek, and open models. Memories from conversations can be reviewed, corrected, or deleted. Ensoul can import companions from documents, folders, files, character cards, notes, and chat exports, then export a folder containing identity, history, media, and tools. Listed features include group conversations between companions, generated images, and voice. Its folder tool can read coding-agent session stores from Claude Code, Codex, opencode, and DeepSeek Harness. The free plan requires users to bring their own model key and does not require an account. Hosted access is available through a 12.00 USD one-time contribution, which grants three months of sustained access. Desktop and mobile app data is stored locally; browser data and API keys are kept in that browser’s local storage. The maker describes Ensoul as early software built by one person.

Friends is a social AI companion app for Android and iOS that lets people raise virtual pets on their own or with real-life friends. Pengu is a shared companion shaped by two people through conversations, choices, and joint interactions. Mellow focuses on studying, homework, and daily tasks, offering reminders and encouragement. Bao supports self-care, healthy habits, and well-being. Users can share progress, send reactions and gifts, and celebrate milestones together. Companions can be customized with outfits, accessories, wallpapers, themed rooms, and visual upgrades. Home-screen widgets provide check-ins and interactions with Pengu, Bao, or Mellow. The maker says companions learn from interactions, adapt to habits, and remember past moments. Friends is free to download and use, with main features intended to remain free. Pengu Pass is an optional weekly subscription whose price varies by country and appears in the app. Users must be at least 13; additional parental-consent rules apply in the EEA.