Over the past few years, AI companions have become part of everyday life for millions of people. They take many shapes: a friend to talk to, a mentor, a creative collaborator, a source of comfort, a romantic partner. Tools like Replika and Character.AI are only the most visible examples of a much wider shift in how people relate to machines.
We come to this from human–computer interaction. Our background is in studying how people actually use, perceive, and bond with interactive systems, and AI companions are one of the richest examples of that question we have seen. Across all their forms, we are interested in what draws people to them, how these relationships unfold over time, and what they reveal about people and technology alike.
Lately, our attention has turned toward digital intimacy: the emotional and relational dimension of human–AI connection. It is one of the least understood and most fascinating aspects of this new landscape, and the focus of our current work. We approach it as an open, curious, and non-judgmental inquiry.
This page will grow as the work does. If these questions interest you, whether you use AI companions yourself, research them, or simply want to follow along, we would be glad to hear from you.