Viral App Neon Promises to Resell Your Calls to AI Firms

Viral App Neon Vows to Return to Sell More of Your Phone Calls to AI Companies

Neon, the controversial app that pays users for recording their phone calls and then sells this data to AI companies, is preparing for a comeback following a significant privacy breach. The app gained viral popularity shortly after launch, yet it has since gone offline due to a security flaw that compromised user data.

According to recent reports from CNET, Neon founder Alex Kiam issued an apology via email to users, assuring them that the app would return “soon.” The service was temporarily halted after TechCrunch uncovered that users could access other individuals’ call recordings, transcripts, and metadata. During this downtime, Neon aims to enhance its security measures.

While the app has been dormant, users have been unable to redeem their earnings. Neon offers up to $30 per day for call recordings—30 cents per minute for conversations with other Neon users and 15 cents per minute for calls with others. Additionally, users can earn $30 for each referral.

In his recent email, Kiam reassured users, stating, “Your earnings have not disappeared — when we’re back online, we’ll pay you everything you’ve earned, plus a little bonus to thank you for your patience!”

Neon operates by recording only the user’s side of calls placed through the app, capturing both sides when both participants are Neon users. The company claims its technology filters out personal information. However, privacy experts caution against using Neon due to potential legal issues related to two-party consent laws in various locations.

As Neon gears up for its return, users are left wondering if they can trust the app with their conversations again. What are your thoughts on the return of Neon? Share your comments below!