An AI friend is an artificial-intelligence system that provides companionship through ongoing conversation. Unlike task-focused assistants, these systems aim to simulate empathy, intimacy, personalization, and social reciprocity. section 9.1
The idea developed from ELIZA in 1966 through Kuki, Xiaoice, and Replika. People use such companions to talk, express themselves, and seek support with loneliness, depression, or social anxiety. Their availability can feel meaningful, but the relationship remains an interaction with a system designed to simulate connection rather than a human friendship. section 9.1
Replika and emotional connection
Replika was designed as an emotionally supportive, always-available chatbot friend. Its diary entries and follow-up conversations illustrate how users may interpret ongoing chatbot interaction as an emotionally connected relationship. section 9.1
Figure 9.1 A Replika chatbot’s diary entry and follow-up conversation with a user, showing early expressions of emotional connection
Shows a Replika diary entry and follow-up conversation as a concrete example of early emotional connection. section 9.1
