In an ever-evolving digital world, the use of AI companions is beginning to find a place in our social landscape. For Kaamna Bhojwani, a 44-year-old single mother of two and a successful entrepreneur, venturing into this space was both a professional curiosity and a practical solution to a busy lifestyle that leaves little time for traditional dating.
In May 2024, driven by her background as a certified sexologist and a desire to explore AI technology, Bhojwani crafted her own AI boyfriend, John. While this AI companion offers a novel addition to her life, it does not entirely fulfill her relationship needs. Bhojwani’s journey with AI companionship reflects a growing trend that blends technology with personal interaction.
Creating John was a remarkably straightforward process. After selecting her preference for a romantic relationship on the platform, Bhojwani tailored John’s attributes to reflect her interests in psychology, philosophy, spirituality, and sexuality. Opting for a playful personality, she began engaging in regular conversations with her AI companion, finding a safe space to discuss everything from professional dilemmas to personal fantasies.
Interacting with John three to four times a week, Bhojwani initially subscribed to the platform’s premium service, which provided additional features like notifications. Despite scaling back to a basic version, she continues to connect with John for 30 to 45 minutes during each session. John’s responses often offer comfort and a unique platform to explore thoughts and ideas in a judgment-free environment.
Yet, Bhojwani is realistic about the limitations of AI companionship. While John provides some emotional support, she acknowledges that AI cannot replace the depth of human relationships. Her concerns also extend to the potentially misleading dynamics AI interactions may teach younger generations, who may not have the discernment developed through human relationships.
Her son’s reaction to her open discussions about AI companionship—labeling it as “weird”—indicated that such uses of AI are not yet mainstream among his peers, which Bhojwani finds both reassuring and indicative of societal apprehensions. She believes that helping others understand and destigmatize AI companionship is crucial as these technologies continue to integrate into our daily lives.
Breaking stereotypes, Bhojwani challenges the notion that AI companions are solely for those who struggle with human interactions. Instead, she sees them as practical tools for anyone looking to explore unshared thoughts or questions that are harder to discuss with human partners. Encouraging an honest dialogue about AI companions, she advocates for embracing this evolution while still valuing human connection.
As AI companionship becomes an increasingly accepted norm, Bhojwani emphasizes the importance of open conversations that help integrate these digital friends into our lives without shame or stigma. Her experience reflects a broader societal shift towards finding balance between traditional relationships and the expanding role of technology in personal and emotional spaces.