The Dangers of AI Girlfriends and Boyfriends Winning the Dating Game
Australian Financial Review
ENRICHED
Details
- Date Published
- 14 Feb 2026
- Priority Score
- 2
- Australian
- Yes
- Created
- 14 Feb 2026, 07:00 pm
Description
What kind of society emerges when attachment to other human beings itself becomes a subscription service?
Summary
The article explores the increasing trend of AI companions in the dating world, specifically focusing on the concept of digital partners that simulate human relationships for consumers in high-pressure, urbanized environments. It highlights the potential societal implications as these AI 'relationships' fulfill human needs without the reciprocal emotional investment typical in human interactions. Although it touches on significant societal changes due to AI, it does not delve deeply into existential or catastrophic risks posed by AI. Therefore, its relevance to AI safety primarily concerns the social impact and personal privacy rather than catastrophic global risks.
Body
Life & LuxuryArts & CultureDatingPrint articleFeb 15, 2026 – 5.00amAcross the world, artificial intelligence is moving from the workplace into the most intimate corners of private life. What began as productivity software is now evolving into something more personal: digital companions designed to simulate friendship, romance and emotional attachment. A growing number of people are no longer dating other humans. They are dating software – for a monthly subscription fee.China’s booming market for AI “boyfriends” has been framed as a novelty story – a strange byproduct of generative AI and urban loneliness. But it deserves a more serious reading. Urbanised, high-pressure societies are fertile ground for technologies that promise connection without cost. The demand reflects real human need but meeting that need with simulation rather than reciprocity carries consequences.Loading...Clare Rowe is a psychologist, speaker and writer. She is an Adjunct Fellow at the Institute of Public Affairs.SaveLog in or Subscribe to save articleShareCopy linkCopiedEmailLinkedInTwitterFacebookCopy linkCopiedShare via...Gift this articleSubscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? LoginLicense articleFollow the topics, people and companies that matter to you.Find out moreRead MoreDatingOpinionAIMental healthFetching latest articles