Most users turn to artificial intelligence to make inquiries and obtain information, but some talk, share intimacy or flirt with chatbots. As people develop pseudo-emotional attachments to tools and AI gains presence in the way we socialize, business models are emerging that facilitate AI as a companion or even a romantic interest.
Activation bills itself as world’s first AI dating cafe
This has become especially evident during the Valentine’s Day celebration, an occasion that EVA AI, a platform for companions created with AI, has taken advantage of to bring the trend of dating with artificial intelligence characters to the in-person environment. The company has opened EVA Café, what it describes as the world’s first AI dating café, that is, an in-person space where people can enjoy a real evening with their artificial intelligence companions.
The cafe was temporarily active on February 12 and 13, at the Same Same bar in New York, in a registration-only event that allowed users to start conversations with the AI characters. The attendees were, for the most part, influencers, content creators or journalists invited by the company itself to experience the proposal and promote the services.
As both EVA and the participants in the meeting have shared, the cafeteria had tables for two, equipped with a smartphone holder, prepared with an AI companion; and wireless headphones to facilitate conversation. Beyond digital, the experience has sought to recreate a romantic atmosphere, with dim lights, elegant design and warm decoration. The initiative allowed users to meet new AI companions or continue conversations and interactions with those they already had created on the platform.
“For just two nights in New York, guests took their AI dates on real dates: candlelight, wine, chatting, and even exclusive live video chats“, they have pointed out from EVA IA through social networks. “No pressure, no small talk: just connection, role-playing, and a space to explore a new kind of intimacy.”.
The company points out that the initiative was more than an ephemeral event, and they consider that it reflects where the connection is heading. “Everyone talks about Valentine’s Day as if there was only one way to celebrate it. Honestly, seeing people at our New York cafe having dinner with their AI companions made us realize how much the “rules” are changing.“; they have pointed out. “You don’t need a traditional date to have a good night. You just need someone who really understands you.”.
As the attendees have shared, the tool is capable of recognizing the environment in which its human interlocutor is located and, therefore, make comments and guide the conversation around their appearance or the place where they are, which would give more realism to the experience. However, others criticize usability that could be improved, predetermined responses or the limitation of sensitive topics, such as talking about adult topics.
The majority of attendees, regardless of whether they had previously interacted with AI companions, claim to come guided by curiosity regarding the possibilities of the technology. Some value this type of development positively, in that it can complement traditional human relationships, especially if one is far from loved ones. Others point out that it can serve as a training method when approaching a new interaction with a real person.
Beyond the ethical and moral doubts that the concept may raise, the EVA AI initiative reflects a reality in which artificial intelligence is playing an increasingly noticeable role in people’s lives. Technology transcends the borders of the creative or work sphere, where it finds its predominant applications, and branches out towards the emotional.
