This Week in Startups AI girlfriends, memories & recreations + Sam Altman testifies | E1743
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May 17, 2023 
Rachel Braun, a Gen Z expert known for her insights on AI and social media trends, joins to discuss the rise of Caryn AI, a virtual companion that blurs the lines of personal relationships. They tackle the ethical dilemmas surrounding digital clones and the emergence of AI in everyday life for Gen Z, highlighting its impact on beauty standards and identity. The conversation also dives into the recent Senate hearings on AI regulation, exploring the delicate balance between innovation and ethical oversight in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
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AI Girlfriend
- Caryn Marjorie, a Snapchat influencer, created an AI version of herself, CarynAI, charging $1 per minute for virtual companionship.
- CarynAI generated $72,000 in one week during beta testing, with projections of $5 million monthly earnings.
Ethics of Virtual Companionship
- The concept of virtual companionship raises ethical questions about intimacy and its implications.
- 99% of CarynAI's followers are male, suggesting targeted use.
Unauthorized AI Clones
- Forever Voices created AI versions of figures like Steve Jobs, Elon Musk, and Taylor Swift using their voice and likeness without permission.
- Jason Calacanis finds using Steve Jobs' likeness without family permission disrespectful.