With artificial intelligence quickly seeping into everyday life, health experts question whether the popularity of mental health chatbots and digital lovers will alter the way people connect.
Digital companions such as the ones on California-based Luka's Replika app are growing in popularity, with roughly 25 million users worldwide according to Stanford researchers.
When it comes to the mobile app's set-up, obtaining a partner is as simple as creating an account, customising an avatar based on personal preferences, and keeping the conversation going.
