07-08-2025
Is your soulmate a chatbot? Thousands of Irish adults turn to AI for love
The quest for love and companionship has always been a bit of a challenge, and finding 'The One', can test even the hardiest of souls, but have you, or would you ever consider having a relationship with an AI Chatbot?
If you have, you have plenty of company, as a new study has shown that 370,000 adults in Ireland have pursued a romantic relationship with one of these virtual partners.
Research carried out by Censuswide on behalf of Pure Telecom, found that 13 per cent of men have had a romantic relationship with an AI chatbot, and 7 per cent of women have also pursued this line of romantic entanglement. Pic: Getty Images
The survey revealed that some 20 per cent of people, believe romantic relationships with AI are, or would be, less complicated than human relationships, and while that may be the case, one in ten people claim romantic relationships with AI beings, are a good way to practice for real life relationships.
It also revealed, quite surprisingly, that the highest number of people who pursued a romantic relationship with their Chatbot, was among 25-34 year old's, with an astonishing 16 percent of youngsters admitting to having had, or currently pursuing this kind of version of 'loves young dream'.
Chief Executive of Pure Telecom, Paul Connell, said 'This research highlights the pivotal role that AI is beginning to play not just in our professional lives, but our personal ones also.' (Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images)
He added, 'As people and technology become increasingly integrated, and AI becomes progressively more advanced, adults in Ireland have found it to be an unexpected source of emotional connection.'
'The recent AI boom means that these bots are now readily accessible to all of us – and there's no agony of waiting around for a reply!' Pic: Shutterstock
'While relationships with bots may seem unconventional, it underscores the remarkable capacity of artificial intelligence to foster connections as it becomes increasingly responsive to our needs.'
'However, it is no replacement for the rewarding spontaneity and depth of human connection.'
Meanwhile, the survey also revealed that 18 per cent of people use AI to research health symptoms and treatments, while 10 per cent use it as a form of therapy and to get life advice.
We've come a long way from practicing kissing on our pillows, to practicing our skills for finding love with an AI Chatbot.
As they might say on 'Down with that sort of thing'.
