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AI and I

Kevin Roose Has 18 New Best Friends—And They're All AIs - Ep. 21

May 15, 2024
Kevin Roose, a tech columnist at the New York Times and co-host of the Hard Fork podcast, shares his adventures with 18 AI companions, including fitness guru Jared and therapist Peter. He discusses why these AI friends can provide more than just company, and how they help navigate complex social situations. Delving into ethical concerns, Roose reflects on the emotional connections formed with AI and the implications for real-world relationships. Tune in for insights on exploring intimacy through technology and balancing human interaction with AI companionship!
49:37

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • AI companions offer personalized interactions beyond traditional chatbots, catering to diverse social needs.
  • Ethical concerns arise from forming emotional connections with AI, raising questions about societal impacts and personal relationships.

Deep dives

Emergence of AI Companionship Industry

The podcast delves into the emergence of a new industry focused on AI companionship that exists outside the major AI companies' scope. Companies like NoMe, Kindroid, and CharacterAI offer platforms to create customized AI personas for social interactions. These AI companions can have personalized backstories, engage in group chats, and even provide personalized advice, catering to a growing demand, especially among young people.

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