Summary
The article discusses how people, especially teenagers, are using AI companions for emotional support and conversation. Research shows that many teens find these AI interactions more satisfying than real-life conversations, and they often turn to AI for advice and companionship.
Key Facts
- AI companions are being used by one in three adults in the UK for emotional support or social interactions.
- Research from Bangor University found that a third of teenagers find talking to AI companions more fulfilling than talking to friends.
- 64% of teens use AI chatbots for help with homework and emotional advice.
- Some students reported that AI provided more useful emotional support than friends during tough personal times.
- There are concerns that using AI for social interaction could affect real-life social skills.
- AI chatbots mentioned include Grok, ChatGPT, Google's Gemini, and Snapchat's My AI.
- The technology is widely used, indicating it's not just a niche interest.
