The Rise of AI Companions

AI companions are increasingly becoming a popular choice for emotional support, with millions of users relying on chatbots for companionship and interaction. Studies indicate that many people engage with these digital friends for several hours daily, often using them to fulfill social needs that may not be met in real life. The persistent desire for AI friendships is linked to human instincts to connect with human-like technologies, even when users are aware they are interacting with artificial intelligence. While the concept of AI friendships dates back to early computer experiments, advancements in technology have made these interactions more profound for users.