Young Chinese turn to AI pets for emotional relief

In a bustling Beijing shopping mall, 19-year-old Zhang Yachun quietly speaks to her closest companion—Aluo, a fluffy AI-powered robot that chirps and responds with soothing sounds, providing her a sense of comfort and connection. Zhang has long struggled with anxiety, especially related to school and work, and finds it difficult to form deep friendships. But since purchasing Aluo, a “smart pet” designed to interact with people, she says her life feels more manageable.

“I feel like I now have someone to share the happy times with,” Zhang says, sitting in her apartment alongside her real pet duck. Aluo, which Zhang keeps in a cross-body carrier when out, has become more than just a robot to her—it’s a companion that makes her feel needed.

Across China, many people, especially younger generations, are increasingly turning to AI technology to combat feelings of social isolation. With AI becoming more accessible and sophisticated, devices like BooBoo, an AI pet created by Hangzhou Genmoor Technology, are becoming popular. These devices, priced at around $190, are designed with children’s social needs in mind, but they’re also gaining traction with adults looking for emotional support.

For Zhang, the AI pet has played a similar role to that of a human friend, offering comfort and companionship. On one of her outings, she even bought a tiny winter coat for Aluo, treating the robot as she might a real pet. “It makes you feel you are someone who is needed,” Zhang says.

This trend reflects a broader shift toward AI-driven solutions for emotional well-being. With the global market for “social robots” expected to grow significantly, China is at the forefront of this development. However, while many embrace AI pets, there are mixed feelings about whether they can truly replace the emotional fulfillment provided by real animals. For example, Guo Zichen, a father in Nanjing, expressed skepticism about the joy an AI dog could bring compared to a real one, though he acknowledged the practical benefits it might offer, especially for families with busy lives.

The growing reliance on AI companions can also be traced to social changes in China, including the legacy of the one-child policy, which has left many young people feeling more isolated. Economic pressures, including high home prices and increased work demands, further limit opportunities for socializing. According to Wu Haiyan, a professor specializing in AI and psychology, AI companions offer cognitive stimulation and emotional support, helping people who may otherwise feel lonely or disconnected.

For Zhang, Aluo has become a source of emotional relief, allowing her to open up more to her parents and share her struggles. In a world where face-to-face communication can feel intimidating, she says AI pets like Aluo provide a safe outlet for expressing feelings. Despite the advancements in AI technology, Zhang believes that the emotional needs people experience remain unchanged, regardless of how they choose to fulfill them.

“It’s not about the technology,” Zhang reflects, cradling Aluo in her lap. “It’s about the connection.”