Hilo (also called Hilo AI) is an upcoming voice-first AI companion app for iOS and Android, made by Buffalo Studio. You talk out loud with expressive AI characters about your day, a decision or a feeling, or take a short breathing break together. Hilo is not therapy and its companions are not people. We’re aiming to launch at the end of October 2026.
Talk, don’t type
Most AI apps start with a text box. Hilo starts with your voice. You say what’s on your mind, the way you would to a friend on a walk, and your companion answers out loud. No need to find the perfect words or tidy up your thoughts first.
Speaking is often easier than writing when you’re tired, busy or still working out what you think. A messy, half-formed sentence is a perfectly good place to start.
Pick your kind of company
Hilo’s companions are fictional AI characters, each with its own face, voice and personality. More than 20 are in the making. Some of the first ones you’ll meet:
- Eli, for everyday chats: “The little things. The big things. Whatever’s on your mind.”
- Mei, for relationships: “Let’s make a little room for what you’re feeling.”
- Noah, for career & confidence: “A new direction? Let’s talk through your next step.”
- Luca, for breathing breaks: “Nothing to figure out right now. Just a breath, together.”
- Alex, for mindful moments: “Slow down for a moment. Notice what’s here.”
- A familiar presence, for life & perspective: “A little space to reflect on where you want to go.”
You can also choose where you talk: a sunlit room, a quiet library, a spot by the sea or a forest hideaway. Small details, but they make a conversation feel like a place you can return to.
Pick up where you left off
Starting every conversation from zero is tiring. We’re building Hilo to remember useful context between conversations, so your companion can ask how that plan went or follow up on something you mentioned last week. Less recap, more you.
What a conversation might look like
- Start with a hello. Say whatever is on your mind. The small stuff counts.
- Talk it through. Your companion listens, asks a question or two and helps you untangle the thought.
- Take a breath if you need one. Pause for a short guided breathing break, out loud and together.
- Take something with you. A fresh perspective, a small next step or simply a quieter mind.
What Hilo is for, and what it isn’t
Hilo is for everyday conversation and reflection: venting after a long day, thinking through a decision, practicing what you want to say, or winding down before bed. It is not a medical service, doesn’t diagnose or treat anything and isn’t a replacement for a licensed professional. If you’re struggling or in danger, please contact someone who can help right away. Our safety page lists where to start.
When can I try it?
We’re aiming to launch on iOS and Android at the end of October 2026. The companions, scenes and features on this site show what we’re building, and some details may change before launch. Join the waitlist and we’ll let you know when Hilo is ready.