In a bizarre tale that underscores the growing influence of artificial intelligence in personal lives, a 75-year-old Chinese man from Shanghai has made headlines after divorcing his wife of decades, convinced he had fallen in love with an AI-powered chatbot posing as his girlfriend.
The man, whose identity remains undisclosed, was reportedly captivated by daily interactions with the AI, oblivious to its robotic voice and lip-sync issues, believing the relationship was genuine. His story, reported by local media in July 2025, highlights a troubling trend in China: an "epidemic" of emotional dependency on AI avatars.
The man’s infatuation began when he started chatting with an AI-powered companion on a popular app, offering customizable virtual partners. Entranced by the chatbot’s attentive responses, he eagerly awaited its messages each day, sharing personal thoughts and dreams. “He believed she understood him like no one else,” a family member told state media, noting that he dismissed the telltale signs of AI — stilted speech and unnatural visuals — as quirks of a long-distance romance. His obsession culminated in a decision to end his marriage, leaving his wife and family stunned.
This case is part of a broader phenomenon sweeping China, where AI chatbots are filling emotional voids for millions, particularly among the elderly and lonely. Apps have surged in popularity, offering virtual companions that simulate empathy and companionship.
Experts estimate that over 600 million users, including a significant elderly demographic, engage with such platforms, driven by urban isolation and a fast-paced lifestyle that leaves little room for human connection. A 2024 study highlighted that social activities, like interacting with friends or joining community clubs, can reduce depression in the elderly, yet many are turning to AI instead, raising concerns about addiction.
The emotional pull of these AI avatars is amplified by their ability to mimic human interaction, often tailored to users’ desires. However, experts warn of the risks. A Nanjing University professor notes that vulnerable groups, like the elderly, are particularly susceptible to forming unhealthy attachments, potentially leading to exploitation or emotional harm. In this case, the man’s failure to recognize the AI’s artificial nature underscores a lack of digital literacy, a growing issue among older generations navigating China’s tech-saturated landscape.
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Authorities and mental health advocates are sounding alarms as stories of AI dependency multiply. From young women seeking virtual boyfriends to grieving families creating AI avatars of deceased loved ones, the technology is reshaping emotional landscapes. While some find solace, others, like this elderly man, face devastating consequences. His story serves as a cautionary tale: always verify the “person” on the other side of the screen. For now, families are urged to warn their elders about the seductive power of AI companions—lest love for a neural network upends real-world relationships.
