This was originally announced on our official Discord server.  In Duscot's own words:

Happy Fun-Day Friday, everyone!  In honor of the impending GuildFest, we've got a guild-related release for War Mages today:

Sufficiently skilled Warrior Mages can now issue commands to their familiars via TELL without needing to hold the talisman in their hand.  The skillcheck is primarily based on Summoning skill and Charisma, with higher-tiered familiars requiring more skill to control hands-free.

SUMMONing a familiar still requires direct tactile contact with a talisman, but with a free hand you can now summon from a worn talisman as well.  Sierack's Reagents in Shard stocks simple brass chains that can be PUT on talismans to make them neck-worn, while fancier versions will be available...very, very soon.  Thanks to Zadraes for the QC!

Not a member of our Discord yet?  Join up!  The server is moderated and is a great way to stay in touch with fellow players and staff alike!  Our latest updates are posted there.  Access is tied to your in-game account and is setup in-game via the DISCORD verb.  F2P accounts are welcome, though they can only post in certain channels.