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Chatbot relationships: What are the risks when your companion is AI?

Chatbot relationships: What are the risks when your companion is AI?

Update: 2025-10-22

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New research found one in seven adult Australians could imagine falling in love with an AI chatbot.

It comes as the world's most popular AI chatbot, ChatGPT, prepares to roll out a new version that includes erotic conversations and the ability to "act like a friend."

So, what happens if our companions, lovers, and friends are made of code?

Is it innovation? Can a bot help alleviate loneliness?

Or are there too many risks when you replace human connection with AI?

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Chatbot relationships: What are the risks when your companion is AI?

Chatbot relationships: What are the risks when your companion is AI?

Australian Broadcasting Corporation