A Personal Mission Sparks Innovation (Image Credits: Unsplash)
A new platform called Synchrony debuted today, targeting neurodivergent adults who often struggle with social isolation in a digital world built for the neurotypical.
A Personal Mission Sparks Innovation
Jamie Pastrano, cofounder of Synchrony, drew inspiration from her 21-year-old autistic son Jesse, whose social challenges highlighted a glaring gap in support for neurodivergent young adults. As he navigated post-teen life, everyday interactions proved daunting despite his outgoing nature. Pastrano, a former management consultant, sold her company in 2024 to address this void. Research indicates that individuals with autism or neurodevelopmental differences – about one in five people, per the Neurodiversity Alliance – experience heightened loneliness during the shift from adolescence to adulthood.Research shows new life demands and fading support structures exacerbate this isolation. Brittany Moser, an autism specialist and cofounder, witnessed similar struggles among her university students.
“Autism doesn’t end at 18,” Pastrano noted. The platform echoes elements from shows like Love on the Spectrum, but shifts focus to friendships rather than romance. Pastrano even pursued certification through UCLA’s PEERS program for social skills training.
Design Choices Prioritize Comfort and Safety
Synchrony resembles a friendship-focused dating site, with profiles emphasizing shared interests over superficial traits. Users list neurodiversity details and communication preferences, such as favoring text over calls or needing time to respond. Simplified menus, muted colors, and ad-free interfaces minimize sensory overload. Registration requires two-step verification: the user and a trusted contact – like a teacher or parent – submit ID and details to deter outsiders.
- Interest-based matching to spark genuine conversations.
- Custom communication style indicators for better understanding.
- Subscription model at $44.99 monthly after a 30-day free trial, funding sustainable growth without ads.
- Clean, distraction-free layout tailored to neurodivergent needs.
Jesse: AI Coach with Built-In Guardrails
At the heart of Synchrony lies Jesse, an AI social coach powered by Amazon Bedrock and trained by the team. Users summon Jesse during chats for editable prompts to continue discussions, interpret cues like flirtation, or set boundaries. The tool scans interactions in real time, aiming to build confidence that translates offline. Advocates like Bobby Vossoughi of the Starry Foundation praised the effort: “These kids are isolated and their social cues are off. They’re creating something that could really change this community’s lives for the long term.”
Yet AI’s role invites scrutiny. Studies, including Stanford’s Noora chatbot, show potential for enhancing empathy in autistic users. Critics warn of emotional risks or stunted real-world growth, dubbing unchecked AI a “seductive cul-de-sac.” Synchrony counters with restrictions: no medical advice, no address sharing, and redirects for off-topic queries. Human moderators oversee activity, and excessive Jesse use triggers warnings. Lynn Koegel of Stanford stressed the need for rigorous testing on such tools.
Strong Backing and Measured Growth Ahead
The platform secured endorsements from Starry Foundation and Autism Speaks, plus Apple App Store approval. Early tests with 14 alpha users and university beta groups refined its features. Marketing targets neurodiverse employer programs, campuses, and advocates rather than mass appeals. Pastrano emphasized quality over quantity: “No other app for the neurodiverse is focusing primarily on reducing social anxiety and encouraging friendship.”
Universities can deploy closed versions for their communities, fostering organic ties.
Key Takeaways
- Synchrony fills a post-18 support gap with friendship-focused tools.
- AI coach Jesse offers real-time help while prioritizing safety.
- Paid model and verification ensure a protected, authentic space.
Synchrony arrives at a pivotal moment, offering neurodivergent adults a safer path to connection amid rising digital fatigue. Will AI prove a bridge or a barrier to real bonds? Share your thoughts in the comments.