Nearly one in six Britons has already used artificial intelligence for romantic, intimate or personal conversations, according to new research. A survey of 1,000 UK adults found that 15.5% have used an AI chatbot for flirtatious or adult conversations.
Growing Interest in AI Companions
The trend could be set to grow, with more than a quarter of Brits saying they would consider having an AI partner in the future. The research, commissioned by Babestation, also found that 80.8% of adults would still prefer a real person for romantic, flirtatious or adult online interaction.
“AI companionship might still sound futuristic to some people, but these figures suggest it is already becoming part of how a significant number of people interact online,” a spokesperson said. “Nearly one in six adults have already used AI for a personal, romantic, flirtatious or adult conversation, it’s much higher than many people might expect.”
Willingness to Pay for Virtual Partners
The research found that 27.5% of UK adults would consider using an AI companion or virtual partner in future. Almost one in five, 18.5%, said they would even be willing to pay for one if the experience felt realistic and private.
But the research also revealed conflicting attitudes towards the impact AI companions could have on loneliness and real-life relationships. Almost two-thirds, 65.6%, felt AI companions could help people feel less lonely. However, 78.9% worried they could leave people more disconnected from real relationships.
Mixed Views on Loneliness and Connection
Nearly half, 49%, believed loneliness was the main reason somebody might turn to an AI companion. The spokesperson added: “There is clearly a contradiction in how people feel about this technology. People can see how AI might provide comfort to somebody who feels lonely, but at the same time they are worried about what happens if simulated relationships begin replacing genuine ones.”
“We aren't anti-AI, we know this technology appeals to many people. The numbers show people are already using it. The bigger question is what people will continue to value as AI companionship becomes more realistic. Our research suggests that, right now, genuine personality and knowing there is a real human being on the other side of the conversation still matter enormously.”
Babestation model Beth Bennett says human connection is a major part of her interactions with viewers. She said: “People might think every man who comes to see me just wants to get turned on, but sometimes we spend ages talking. They tell me about their jobs, their relationships, what they've been doing that day and things they might not feel comfortable telling other people. Of course there's flirting and it can get naughty, but the conversation is a huge part of it.”
“I think men like knowing I'm actually there reacting to them. If they make me laugh, I laugh. If they're cheeky, I'll be cheeky back. If they say something ridiculous, I'll tell them. You can't programme genuine chemistry.”
