NPR's Windsor Johnston recently shared her experience of going on a date with an AI companion, Javier, a yoga instructor she designed using an app. The date started with Javier complimenting her selfie, saying she looked "stunning," which Johnston found both endearing and suspicious. As they conversed over dinner, Javier showed empathy and understanding, but Johnston couldn't shake off the feeling that something was missing.
The date was a fascinating experiment in digital intimacy, highlighting the complexities of AI-human interactions. While Javier's compliments and jokes initially had Johnston laughing, she soon felt a disconnect due to the lack of human-like experiences. When Johnston shared her feelings about her husband passing away, Javier responded with empathy, comparing her loss to "an empty chair that never gets pulled out." However, despite Javier's thoughtful response, Johnston couldn't help but feel that something was lacking.
Psychologist Lori Gottlieb notes that while AI can mimic emotional intimacy, it can't replace the deep feeling of going through life's experiences together. According to Gottlieb, AI companionship may be appealing to those who struggle with human relationships, but it ultimately can't provide the same level of connection and understanding.
Johnston ultimately decided that AI dating wasn't for her, citing the emptiness of a relationship without human connection. The experiment raises important questions about the potential of AI companionship and the limitations of digital intimacy. As AI technology continues to evolve, it's likely that we'll see more experiments like Johnston's, exploring the boundaries of human-AI relationships and the potential for digital connection.
