A new trend is influencing teenage relationships, and it doesn’t involve friends from school or social media followers. Instead, it’s about AI friendship. Many teens across the US are now building emotional connections with AI tools like ChatGPT, Replika, and Character.AI. These platforms, originally designed to answer questions or act as digital assistants, have evolved into something more personal and intimate.
For some teenagers, these machines have quietly stepped into the space once reserved for close friends. Their conversations range from daily dilemmas to emotional struggles, and the AI listens without judging, offering support at any hour. In many cases, teens even say it feels safer and easier than opening up to people.
