Generational Divide Emerges in Views on AI Romance, Survey Finds

A recent survey across six major global economies highlights a significant generational gap in how people view the role of artificial intelligence in romantic relationships. While nearly half of young adults believe AI romantic companions will enhance human happiness through emotional support in the coming decade, this optimism wanes considerably with age.

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AI intimacy companions, a category ranging from chatbots to sex dolls, would improve human happiness in the next decade.

The research, which polled nearly 10,000 individuals in the United States, Japan, Germany, Britain, Indonesia, and Hong Kong, found that only a quarter of those aged 55 and over share this positive outlook. This generational divide extends to views on deeper connection and sexual well-being, with younger demographics expressing greater openness to AI intimacy.

Furthermore, the survey revealed a "profound ideological split" between Western and Asian markets. Respondents in Asian countries appear more receptive to integrating AI into their personal and physical lives, with Indonesia showing the highest acceptance rate for AI companions improving connection and sexual wellness. In contrast, Western audiences, particularly in Britain and Germany, largely perceive synthetic intimacy as a threat to authentic human connection.

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While Western audiences largely view synthetic intimacy as a threat to authentic human closeness, Asian audiences appear increasingly ready to integrate AI into their personal and physical lives.

While the concept of AI chatbots for romance and sex is gaining traction, the idea of AI embodied in robots or dolls remains more nascent. Globally, only 17% of respondents indicated they would consider using an "AI intimacy doll," though younger adults were more likely to entertain the idea. The report suggests that the younger generation is actively redefining the boundaries of companionship, even as the general population remains cautious.

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While the global (general population) remains wary, the next generation is actively redefining the boundaries of companionship.