Grok Companions (Ani) review
xAI's animated Grok companions (reportedly retired in 2026).
Updated November 14, 2026
- Price
- Free with paid plans
- Platforms
- Android, iPhone / iOS, Web
- Developer
- xAI
- Languages
- English, Multiple
- Age rating
- 16+ (Grok app)
Key features
- Voice messages / calls
- 3D / AR avatar
Pros
- + Animated 3D avatar with voice
- + Built into a widely used AI assistant
Cons
- − Animated Companions reportedly retired in 2026
- − Limited memory and customisation compared with companion apps
- − Access depended on subscription tier
Overview
Grok Companions were animated characters, led by Ani, built into xAI’s Grok assistant. They combined a 3D avatar with voice chat and drew a lot of attention at launch. Reports indicate the animated Companions were retired in 2026. Our Grok AI girlfriend guide covers the full story.
How it compared
Ani’s strength was presentation: an expressive animated avatar and voice inside an app many people already used. Compared with dedicated apps, memory and customisation were limited.
Alternatives
If you were looking for an animated, voice-first AI girlfriend, consider:
- Replika for a 3D avatar and voice calls
- Kindroid for natural voice calls and deep customisation
- Nomi for the best long-term memory
Verdict
Grok Companions showed how mainstream AI assistants could move into companionship, but for an ongoing AI girlfriend, a dedicated app remains the better choice.
Grok Companions (Ani) FAQ
Is Grok's AI girlfriend still available?
Grok's animated Companions, including Ani, were reportedly retired in 2026. See our Grok AI girlfriend guide for what still works.
What are good alternatives to Grok Ani?
Dedicated companion apps like Nomi, Kindroid and Replika offer stronger memory, voice and customisation.