Morrama's Alight device offers analog alternative to AI 'ghost bots'
London-based design studio Morrama has unveiled Alight, a recording device that captures and archives conversations with loved ones for replay after death, as a human-centered alternative to AI-generated 'ghost bots' that mimic deceased relatives. Founder Jo Barnard critiques the emerging 'grief tech' trend for prioritizing digital replication over authentic connection. Alight uses satellite technology to detect presence and emits a soft glow when someone is available to talk. A large tactile button ensures consent before recording. AI is used only as a search tool to retrieve specific audio files. The project aims to preserve intergenerational wisdom and support young people's psychological resilience. Morrama, founded in 2015, positions Alight as a catalyst for real-world conversation rather than a replacement for human interaction.
Key facts
- Morrama designed a recording device called Alight as an alternative to AI 'ghost bots'.
- Alight records and archives conversations for replay after a loved one's death.
- The device uses satellite technology to track movement and glows when someone is present.
- A large button provides a tactile interface that requires consent before recording.
- AI is used only as a search tool to find relevant audio files, not to generate content.
- Founder Jo Barnard said the project aims to preserve intergenerational wisdom.
- Morrama was established in 2015 as a product design and innovation agency.
- Barnard won the Bentley Lighthouse Award at Dezeen Awards 2025.
Entities
Artists
- Jo Barnard
Institutions
- Morrama
- Dezeen
- Bentley Lighthouse Award
- Morrama design studio
- Yale
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom
Sources
- Collater.al —
- Dezeen —