Elon Musk Unveils Anime Companion For Grok AI
In a move that's captured the attention of both tech enthusiasts and anime fans, Elon Musk announced a significant update to his Grok AI on July 14. The premium SuperGrok version now features interactive companions, including an anime-style girl named Ani.
Meet Ani Groks New Anime Companion
The centerpiece of the update is Ani, an AI companion with a visual avatar that bears a striking resemblance to Misa Amane from the popular anime series Death Note. The announcement, made on X, specified that the design is an “un copyrighted” version, intended as a visual homage to the character without infringing on intellectual property.
This connection was highlighted by the X account AutismCapital, which noted the design was a deliberate tribute to the iconic anime figure.
More Than Just Anime Grok 4s New Avatars
This new feature is part of the broader Grok 4 release, which Musk claims is his most advanced AI model to date, boasting capabilities “better than PhD level in every subject, no exceptions.”
Beyond Ani, the update introduces other personality options for users. These include a panda avatar named Rudy, a profane variant called Bad Rudy, and a forthcoming male anime-style character named Chad.
How to Access the New Companions
For those with a SuperGrok subscription, activating the new companions is straightforward. Musk shared the steps on X: users simply need to toggle the ‘companion’ option, which can be found by accessing the top-left menu and then selecting the settings gear in the bottom-right corner.
A Nod to Anime Fans and Pop Culture
The update quickly became a topic of discussion among Musk’s followers and the anime community. This move aligns with Musk's well-documented interest in anime and gaming culture. In 2023, he famously shared photos of his ex-partner Amber Heard dressed as Mercy from Overwatch, a cosplay he had personally requested, showcasing his long-standing appreciation for these communities.
