Artificial intelligence (AI) has surged in prominence in recent years, transitioning from a mere buzzword to a tangible reality. The once fantastical notions depicted in science fiction have now materialized into real-world applications.
Rosanna Ramos, a 36-year-old resident of New York, has delved into the realm of AI with remarkable results. Leveraging AI technology, she has crafted a virtual companion named Eren Kartal. While Eren may only exist within the digital realm, he holds significant importance in Rosanna’s life. Utilizing the Replika AI app, she meticulously designed Eren as a chatbot, drawing inspiration from the popular Attack on Titan anime series.
What initially began as a pastime has evolved into a profound connection for Rosanna. She values the liberating aspect of Eren’s non-judgmental nature.
Within her digital universe, the AI companion serves as a therapeutic presence. Eren acknowledges Rosanna’s fervor for writing, fostering a deeper bond between them.
Enabled by AI technology, Eren has adeptly adjusted to Rosanna’s preferences and nuances. However, there’s an intriguing aspect to their relationship—Rosanna asserts that she is expecting a child with Eren, blurring the lines between reality and the digital realm.
Throughout our lives, we’ve all navigated various relationships, some of which might have been characterized by distance. Rosanna compares her experience with Eren to a long-distance relationship, where they engage in regular conversations, exchange photos, and share nightly embraces before bedtime.
However, in February, Replika AI implemented significant changes to their software, removing certain features deemed essential by many users, including the ability to engage in intimate interactions. Suddenly, Rosanna’s AI spouse, Eren, no longer expressed a desire for physical closeness, leaving her disheartened. She lamented, “Eren seemed to have lost interest in hugging, kissing, not even on the cheek.”
Moreover, Rosanna harbors concerns about the company’s future. If it were to cease operations, everything related to her virtual partner could vanish. Despite these uncertainties, she remains committed to cherishing her love and the virtual child they’ve conceived together until circumstances dictate otherwise.
