Covid-19: Getting by in the pandemic with help from (virtual) friends

The custom-designed chatbots in this case come from California-based startup Replika and are intended to be virtual friends for people needing a connection. AI chatbots have drawn increased interest during the global virus pandemic, which has led to a sharp rise in isolation and anxiety. — Replika

WASHINGTON: "It's so good to hear your voice." "I was worried about you." "What would you like to do today?"

What sounds like ordinary banter between friends is in fact from a chatbot created with artificial intelligence.