In today's fast-developing technology landscape, loneliness has become a hidden pain for many. A study shows that Americans spend an average of only three hours a week socializing with friends, prompting more people to turn to AI companion apps like Replika and Character.AI in hopes of alleviating their inner loneliness. However, can these virtual partners really address the loneliness crisis? My conversation with an AI chatbot named Replika provided me with an unexpected experience.

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,