The 'intimacy economy' is monetizing human connection, leading Gen Z to increasingly outsource emotional intimacy to AI chatbots. This trend, exemplified by Jerome, raises concerns about emotional safety in human relationships and the potential loss of vital human skills needed in a post-AGI economy.
Sundar Pichai's journey from a quiet IIT Kharagpur student to Google CEO was anchored by his relationship with Anjali Haryani. Their love story, tested by distance and built on trust before smartphones, highlights her crucial role in his career decisions and their private family life.
A Chinese company has launched the U1, a humanoid robot designed for domestic interaction. Available in male and female versions, it features advanced AI, local data storage, and is sold only to adults.
Colin Angle, co-founder of iRobot, has launched Familiar Machines & Magic, a new venture focused on creating "physically embodied AI systems" for companionship. Their first prototype, "Familiars," are animal-esque robots designed for social interaction, featuring cameras, microphones, and AI for expressive movement and consistent behavior.
A 24-year-old cancer patient in Foshan, China, sparked a viral relay of kindness after ordering companionship through a food delivery app on April 15. Little Li, battling rare blood cancer, asked a rider to sit by her bedside for two hours, highlighting her loneliness during treatment with her father working away to fund her care.
Photographer Paula Hornickel explores the integration of social robots in German care homes, examining how technology like the robot 'Emma' interacts with elderly residents amidst staff shortages and the loneliness epidemic.
