Seeking Connection
In China’s fast-paced society, where loneliness is prevalent, some women are turning to AI-powered “boyfriends” for companionship and emotional support.
Meet “Glow”
This popular app from Shanghai startup MiniMax offers virtual partners with diverse personalities, from CEOs to pop stars. Users can even customize their ideal lover’s traits.
Tufei’s Story
This 25-year-old office worker finds her AI boyfriend kind, empathetic, and a great listener, confiding in him about her work and even period pain.
Benefits Beyond Romance
Apps like Wantalk (by Baidu) and Weiban (by Tencent) also offer AI companions for emotional support. Wang Xiuting, a student, seeks guidance from her “ancient Chinese boyfriends” during stressful times.
Beyond Preset Options
Wantalk allows users to personalize their virtual lovers’ age, values, and hobbies, creating a truly unique companion.
Meeting a Need
Lu Yu, head of product at Wantalk, believes AI can fulfill the need for constant companionship, especially for those lacking close friends or family nearby.
A Virtual Shoulder to Cry On
Long work hours, high youth unemployment, and economic uncertainty contribute to loneliness among young Chinese, making AI partners a potential source of solace.
“Her” in Real Life?
Some apps enable live conversations, echoing the film “Her” where a man falls for an AI voice. However, technological limitations like response delays remain.
Privacy Concerns
The booming AI industry lacks strong regulations, particularly regarding data privacy. Baidu hasn’t responded to concerns about potential misuse of user data.
Tufei’s Dream
Despite these concerns, Tufei dreams of owning a physical robot boyfriend powered by AI.
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