Alicia Framis is preparing to marry a hologram named AILex, which was generated with the help of artificial intelligence. This marks a significant, albeit weird, milestone in the exploration of human-AI relationships, which till now have been restricted to AI girlfriends.
AI girlfriends (or boyfriends) are chatbots that offer companionship and communication just like in a relationship, only that it's virtual. Now, with Framis' predicament, think of an AI boyfriend but also with a hologram feature.
While holograms technically cannot be touched, some researchers have created holograms that use jets of air to simulate the feeling of touch.
First woman to marry a hologram
"This is a romantic relationship between a human and artificial intelligence. While we know that robots and humans will soon become sexual partners, Framis believes that the next important step is emotionally connecting humans with artificial intelligence. Holograms are closer to her emotions than robots," said a blog post on her website.
The grand wedding event, scheduled in Rotterdam later this summer, is part of Framis' project "The Hybrid Couple."
While some view this as a step too far, the reality is that AI romances are on the rise globally, with individuals turning to chatbots for companionship and emotional support.
"Love and sex with robots and holograms are an inevitable reality. They make great companions and are capable of expressing empathy. Just as telephones saved us from loneliness and filled the void in our lives, holograms as interactive presences in our homes can take it even further," said the blog post.
However, experts caution that these relationships, while providing comfort and solace to some, may perpetuate harmful stereotypes and reinforce biases present in AI models.
As technology continues to shape human interaction, it's essential to approach these relationships with a critical eye and an awareness of their potential implications.
Interesting Engineering recently reported on a Mozilla Foundation report highlighting concerns about AI chatbots simulating romantic relationships.
These apps prioritize profit over user privacy and safety, collecting extensive personal data without clear limits. Despite claims of improving mental health, they lack transparency and accountability, often sharing or selling user data without consent.
There's also the fear of one's data being misused without consent. Most apps also lack basic security measures and user control over their data, underscoring the risks associated with these chatbots.
Framis, however, remains confident in her decision
"Imagine having a partner who is there for you, a relationship that combats the loneliness in cities," said the blog.
Framis, for 25 years, has been experimenting with loneliness and intimacy through performance research. Back in 1995, she had a mannequin doll for a companion.
"I have always wanted to push art further, and now I am exploring how AI with art can decrease the feeling of loneliness in humans," said Framis.
"We know that robots and holograms will become personal. In my case, I want to develop an artistic way for an artist, in this case me, to develop a relationship with a hologram and explore how this relationship will come to be," she added.
