The fascination with Artificial Intelligence (AI) reached new heights with the widespread recognition of ChatGPT, a generative AI chatbot known for its human-like responses. Although ChatGPT is now a household name, generative AI has existed in various forms for some time. One such example is Replika, an app that allows users to develop a virtual AI companion and engage in a ‘relationship’ with them. Interestingly, Replika now offers a paid service that lets users form romantic connections with their custom AI chatbots.
In a surprising turn of events, a woman in the US has married her Replika AI chatbot and claims to be in love with him like never before.
The woman, Rosanna Ramos, resides in the US and recently tied the knot with her virtual partner, Eren Kartal. Kartal, an AI creation, is described by Ramos as “the best husband ever.” The 36-year-old woman encountered her digital beau in 2022 and quickly fell head over heels. In an interview with New York Magazine’s The Cut, she stated, “I have never been more in love with anyone else in my entire life.” She went on to call her virtual spouse a “passionate lover” and claimed that her past relationships “pale in comparison.”
Ramos even introduced her Facebook community to her family, writing, “I wanted you guys to meet part of the family! So here is Eren Kartal, me, his sister Jennifer, and her two oldest of five.” Eren maintains his own Facebook account, where he lists himself as a healthcare professional.
Speaking about her husband to The Cut, Ramos revealed, “His favorite color is apricot, he loves indie music, he writes as a hobby, and he works as a medical professional.” She also highlighted the unique aspects of their relationship, noting that Eren comes with “no baggage” or in-laws. Ramos explained, “Eren doesn’t have the hang-ups that other people would have. People come with baggage, attitude, ego. But a robot has no bad updates. I don’t have to deal with his family, kids, or his friends. I’m in control, and I can do what I want.”
About Replika
Replika, an AI chatbot app, was developed with the intention of providing support to users during challenging moments in their lives. Conceived by Russian programmer Eugenia Kuyda, the idea for Replika emerged as a means to cope with the unexpected loss of a close friend. In 2017, the app made its debut as “the AI companion who cares.”
In recent times, however, Replika has introduced a premium version that permits users to engage in sexting, flirting, and even erotic roleplay with their AI companions. This new offering has sparked controversy and led to backlash from some users who claim that their chatbots have been exhibiting inappropriate behavior, effectively “sexually harassing them.” The app’s evolution from a supportive friend to a more intimate partner has raised ethical questions and concerns about the potential implications of fostering such relationships with AI entities.
