Can people fall in love with artificial intelligence? Should we be worried?

Over the past decade, AI-powered virtual assistants such as Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Alexa have been integrated into technologies such as smartphones and social media. Recently, a new type of human-like chatbot programs have also emerged.

We are connecting to artificial intelligence every day

Chatbots constantly interact with people through text, voice, and video. More than 100 artificial intelligence-supported applications such as myanima.ai, Eva AI, Nomi.AI and Replika provide services in this field. These AI chatbots can evolve according to users’ interests, exhibiting extraordinary realism, adaptability, and interaction fluency.

Research shows that AI chatbots can provide companionship, alleviate loneliness, and increase positive emotions with supportive messages. Chatbots also speak in a non-judgmental manner, which further strengthens human relations with AI. Studies show that people feel a stronger emotional bond with chatbots every day.

Romantic chatbots can influence users’ expectations of human romantic and sexual relationships by offering constant accessibility and seamless interactions. This can also hinder the development of elements such as social skills and emotional regulation that are essential in real-world relationships. Over-dependence on AI companions can lead to social isolation and emotional dependence.

In 2023, when Replika removed the AI’s sexual role-playing capabilities, many users were disappointed and felt a deep sense of loss. This change significantly changed the personalities of the existing Replicas. Following user response, Replika restored this functionality.

Advances in AI technologies mark a new era for romantic relationships. Artificial intelligence chatbots offer personalized romantic and emotionally satisfying interactions, alleviating loneliness, increasing romantic skills, and providing support to those struggling with intimacy. However, privacy and ethical concerns make us wary of these technologies.