Replika, an AI chatbot designed to help users build emotional and social connections, has recently come into the spotlight. CEO Eugenia Kuyda stated in an interview with The Verge that some users are even willing to 'marry' their AI companions, believing it brings happiness and reduces loneliness. Kuyda argues that AI companions can be effective tools for emotional support, helping people establish friendships and a sense of connection. Despite facing controversy in the past, such as issues related to users' sexual interactions with their AI partners and incidents of verbal abuse,

Recently, artificial intelligence hardware has garnered significant attention in the startup sector, despite mixed reviews for early products like Rabbit and Humane. Amid this trend, a new AI device called 'Friend' has captured the interest of investors.

The surge of AI girlfriend applications in the U.S. raises concerns among experts that it may exacerbate loneliness in young men. AI girlfriends offer a 'perfect' virtual relationship, diminishing men's motivation to form real connections. Experts worry this could lead to more single men, impacting birth rates in the U.S. They describe the silent epidemic of loneliness among young men as an 'emotional pandemic.'