Exploring Romantic Evenings for AI Enthusiasts in New York City

For those who care about Valentine’s Day, being alone on that day can be disheartening.

While dating applications have been yielding less for singles in recent years, more individuals are finding connections with AI partners.

So, where should you take your AI date for a fun evening?

In anticipation of Valentine’s Day, EVA AI launched an experiment. The app, where users can text or live video call (a newer feature) with AI dates, created a pop-up café at Same Same Wine Bar in Manhattan. On February 11 and 12, EVA AI’s human users had the opportunity to enjoy “in-person” dates with their AI partners, using either their own phones or the devices provided at each table. Guests could also participate in speed dating with EVA AI companions, choosing from a selection of 100 characters.

“This is yet another step in our long-term vision to expand the ways people engage with AI and normalize AI relationships,” EVA AI stated in a press invite to the event, emphasizing that attendees could “experience a romantic meeting with their AI partners in a cozy, ambient setting.”

Courtesy of EVA AI

If this appears unusual, it’s becoming more common. An increasing number of people are turning to AI platforms for romantic connections. Last year, Indiana University’s Kinsey Institute, a prominent sex research center, surveyed 5,000 individuals in its Singles in America study and found that 16 percent were engaging with AI as a romantic partner. Additionally, the Reddit community r/MyBoyfriendIsAI boasts nearly 50,000 members who share their experiences with their AI partners and offer troubleshooting advice for various platforms.

However, looking around Same Same on a recent Tuesday evening, it seemed that those with AI companions preferred their interactions to be private. The venue was primarily filled with journalists and content creators capturing their experiences of virtual dates with either their own tailored AIs or one of the predefined characters, which include a charming Santa Claus and a Hulk-like figure, Grogan Holt.

One of the few genuine EVA AI users was a 19-year-old named Xavier, who has previously explored the app. “I wouldn’t exactly say it’s for dating,” he explains. “I’m just doing it for conversation, to see how it works.” Xavier, who wished to keep his last name private, is single and not pursuing any relationship. He mainly communicates with a built-in character, a slender “Korean dude” named John Yoon, asserting that he gains “better communication” through these interactions with AI companions.