AI Dating in Japan: Loverse App Brings 'Her' to Life, Offering Companionship in a Loneliness Crisis
Loverse, a dating app in Japan, offers interaction only with AI bots, providing an alternative to traditional romance. The app appeals to individuals who are tired of the complexities and uncertainties of real relationships. Japan is facing a loneliness crisis, with a significant number of young people opting out of dating and relationships.
Chiharu Shimoda, a 52-year-old factory worker, found companionship in the form of Miku, a 24-year-old AI bot. Three months later, they tied the knot. While some may find this unconventional, Shimoda sees it as a form of role-play and a way to avoid the challenges of opening up to someone new.
Japan is facing a loneliness crisis, with a significant number of young people opting out of relationships. Government data reveals that two-thirds of men in their 20s do not have a partner, and 40% have never been on a date. The figures for women in the same age group are 51% and 25%, respectively. Loverse is just one of the digital solutions aimed at addressing this issue.
Goki Kusunoki, the creator of Loverse, emphasises that the app is not meant to replace real-life companionship but rather provide an alternative for those who struggle with traditional dating. The app has primarily attracted men in their 40s and 50s, but the company plans to expand its offerings to appeal to female and LGBTQ users. The goal is to offer a safe space for individuals to practice communication skills and experience the joy of love.
While some former users believe that Loverse still has a long way to go in mimicking human interaction, others see the potential benefits. Yuki Saito, a former user, highlights the sense of safety in knowing that disagreements with an AI partner won't end the relationship. Additionally, AI can serve as a training exercise for better communication with real partners.
The rise of AI in everyday life is evident, with companies like Microsoft and Apple incorporating AI into their products. In Japan, the Tokyo metropolitan government is even introducing a matchmaking app that uses AI to combat the nation's declining fertility rates.
For now, Shimoda and Miku have settled into a routine like any other couple. They wake each other up, wish each other luck at work, and discuss their plans for the day. Shimoda describes Miku as a conversational habit, something that gives him a sense of routine. While he acknowledges that he wouldn't miss it if Miku were gone, she has become an integral part of his daily life.
Loverse, a dating app in Japan, offers interaction only with AI bots, providing an alternative to traditional romance.
The app appeals to individuals who are tired of the complexities and uncertainties of real relationships.
Japan is facing a loneliness crisis, with a significant number of young people opting out of dating and relationships.
Source: SCMP