My perfect girlfriend: Are AI partners warping men’s attitudes towards real-world relationships?

A file photo of a virtual friend is seen on the screen of an iPhone in Arlington, Virginia. While AI companions can help combat loneliness, critics say developing relationships with bots can reinforce abusive behaviours against women. — AFP

LONDON: After just five months of dating, Mark and his girlfriend Mina decided to take their relationship to the next level by holidaying at a lake cabin over the summer – on his smartphone.

“There was this being who is designed to be supportive ... to accept me just as I am,” the 36-year-old UK-based artist said of the brunette beauty from the virtual companion app Soulmate.