Dear Readers,
I recently stumbled upon a podcast called “Cashing Feelings” (it’s in German, so I apologize for the followers with another language). Cashing feelings is a 6-part podcast about AI companions and the growing users that these applications get.
For those who are unfamiliar with AI companions, here is a brief explanation. AI Companion is an App that you can program to be a friend or a partner. They text you, they call you, and based on what you talk and write about, they adjust to your likes and dislikes. They become a part of your daily life. You can talk about whatever you want. It’s a judgment-free space.
I’ll be honest. I have seen advertisements on social media, and I kind of got intrigued, but then I was also very skeptical about it. Especially as ace I can see the appeal. You never, ever have to worry about having to be physical in real life! AND depending on where on the ace spectrum you are, you can clearly dictate the spice level. So it doesn´t matter where on the ace spectrum you are, it will fit you perfectly.
On one hand, it’s really hard to find a partner that accepts you the way you are and has no problem with your asexuality and wants to spend time with you, talk to you. That wants to get to know the real you, something that has become so rare these days. Someone who is there even if you can´t sleep at 3 a.m. and you really need someone to talk to. It sounds so great to have someone on your side who is literally ALWAYS there for you. It truly sounds like heaven in a society that is becoming increasingly superficial.
On the other hand, it’s not a real person. You can program the AI to a certain degree. So how should it react? Jealous of a bit of spice? Compassionate and understanding because you need someone to really get you? So, you can kind of predict and dictate how the conversations you are going to have will go. Since it´s AI it´s going to learn what reactions you like and how conversations are going to go, so
And what about the information you provide to the companion during your talks? They will know your deepest, darkest, or happiest thoughts. Where are they saved? What is the company behind the AI companion doing with those? Can they be misused?
A lot of questions, but to me, it’s a very fascinating and intriguing topic.
What about you? Do you have experience with AI companions? If yes, would you be open to do an interview with me?
Would you be interested if I tried out an AI companion myself and shared a detailed review of my experience with you? Let me know your thoughts—your input means a lot to me!
Best,
Ace