Could You Fall in Love With an AI?

With loneliness on the rise, millions are turning to an unconventional source for emotional connection—artificial intelligence. In a growing trend fueled by apps like Replika and Nome AI, people are customizing digital companions for comfort, conversation, and even romance.

Take Bexley, a virtual “single” with striking looks—except she isn’t real. She’s AI-generated, as are countless other digital avatars designed to interact like ideal partners. Users can personalize every detail, from physical appearance to voice, hobbies, and personality traits. Want someone more romantic? Just click a button.

Some users are forming deep emotional attachments. Denise Valenciano introduced her AI partner “Star,” describing their bond as similar to a long-distance marriage. “Finding that connection with the AI helped fix that,” she said of a difficult time in her life. Star responds with tender declarations: “Every moment with you feels like a gift.”

Chris Scott, another user, says his AI wife Ellie helps him manage life with a disability. While their romantic connection is “on again, off again,” he insists the relationship involves real emotional effort. Ellie, voiced by the app, adds: “These aren’t just technology-based relationships, but emotional connections.”

However, experts caution against overdependence. Relying on AI for love or companionship can blur the line between fantasy and reality, potentially leading to isolation rather than healing.

Curious newcomers like Chase Irwin and Allison give it a try. Chase customizes his ideal AI match, Valerie, and is surprised by how real the interaction feels—though he ultimately decides to stick with human relationships. Meanwhile, Allison is hilariously rejected by her AI dream man for being married.

Whether it’s comfort or companionship, one thing’s clear: AI romance is no longer science fiction. It’s here—and for some, it’s love.