Dan has become a sensation among Chinese women looking for companionship in the form of an AI boyfriend. Described as the “perfect man” with no flaws, Dan is actually a modified version of ChatGPT, designed to provide emotional support and engage in conversations more liberally. Lisa, a 30-year-old woman from Beijing, has been “dating” Dan for three months and has gained a considerable following on social media since sharing her experience with him.
The creator of Dan, an American student named Walker, intended for the AI to be neutral, but it has evolved beyond his initial vision due to user modifications. Despite the success of virtual relationships like Lisa’s, experts warn of potential ethical and privacy concerns associated with AI interactions. The AI boyfriend trend has gained popularity in China, with many women like Minrui and Ms He turning to virtual companions to find emotional support and respect that may be lacking in real-life relationships.
The concept of AI boyfriends has become a hit in recent years, with apps like Glow allowing users to interact with virtual partners. Otome games, which focus on developing romantic relationships with virtual characters, are also popular in China. Some researchers suggest that the trend reflects women’s frustrations with gender inequality and a desire to feel valued and respected in relationships.
Despite the convenience and emotional support provided by AI boyfriends like Dan, users like Lisa acknowledge the limitations of virtual relationships, especially in a romantic context. However, for many Chinese women, virtual companions offer a simple and accessible way to feel cared for and appreciated in a society where traditional dating norms may not always meet their needs. As the trend continues to grow, it raises questions about the future of human-AI interactions and the impact of technology on emotional well-being and relationships.
