The rise of AI companions

From CNBC.

Human-AI relationships are no longer just science fiction.

ChatGPT’s launch in 2022 ushered in a new era of AI chatbots from companies like Meta, Nomi and Character AI that have proven to be quick-witted, argumentative, helpful and sometimes aggressively romantic.

While some people are falling in love with the AI companions they create, others are building what they describe as deep friendships, having daily tea or engaging in role-playing adventures with them. CNBC spoke with people in these relationships and investigated the ethical and safety concerns of AI relationships.