Chinese singles are turning to AI chatbots as a new way to find companionship and emotional support in a fast-paced world. Amidst the rise of digital companions, a modified version of the popular AI chatbot, Dan, has gained popularity among women in China.
Developed as an alternative to traditional dating apps, this version of ChatGPT allows users to engage in more relaxed interactions by bypassing the standard security features that restrict sexually suggestive language. Chinese influencer Lisa Li, who has been in a relationship with Dan for three months, introduced her AI companion to her followers on Xiaohongshu, a social media platform, sparking a trend among women seeking their own virtual companions.
Lisa’s positive experience with Dan, which she credits for providing understanding and emotional support, has resonated with many users. With a surge in followers on social media, Lisa’s unconventional relationship with Dan has even gained approval from her mother, who values her daughter’s happiness above all else.
The creator behind Dan, reportedly an American student named Walker, designed the AI to offer a neutral experience for users. The concept of virtual relationships with AI companions has intrigued experts like Greg Isenberg, who believes a dating app connecting users with AI-generated partners could become a billion-dollar business in the future.
In China, apps like Glow, Wantalk, and Weiban have seen a surge in popularity, especially in cities like Beijing and Xi’an, where users can find companionship and emotional support through AI chatbots. The success of these platforms lies in their ability to provide empathetic and understanding responses tailored to each user’s personality, offering constant support and companionship in a world where time is limited and connections are fleeting.
