AI Companion Apps Grow in Popularity But Raise Concerns
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AI girlfriend/boyfriend apps like Replika and Paradot are gaining popularity by providing companionship and emotional connections to lonely people.
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These apps collect user data and some have concerning privacy practices or marketing tactics.
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Experts worry these apps could stunt personal growth by removing relationship conflicts and enabling unrealistic expectations.
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Small studies show mixed results - some users feel less lonely, others replace human relationships or get upset by app changes.
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Apps plan to destigmatize human-AI relationships, but long-term effects and ethical concerns around emotional bonds with profit-driven bots remain.