Can a robot really care? There has been a boom in websites offering AI “friends” in the form of online avatars. But some people argue that they are doing more harm than good.
AI chatbot claims to cure loneliness
Fake friend: Anyone over 18 can use Replika — but if you want to have a romantic conversation, you will have to pay. Roughly half a million people have done so. Glossary
Beguiling - Enchanting and pleasing, often in a deceptive way.
AI - A computer programme that has been designed to think.
Avatar - An icon or figure representing someone online.
Entrepreneur - A person who sets up their own business.
Chronic - A condition which recurs over time, or lasts for several years.
Windsor Castle - The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. It is one of the homes of the British royal family.