AI Bubble May Pop, But Erotic Chatbots Are Here to Stay

The current AI hype cycle may be approaching a bubble burst, but one unexpected product is likely to endure: the erotic chatbot. This article examines how adult-oriented AI applications are finding sustainable business models even as enterprise AI struggles to deliver on its lofty promises.

The Unfulfilled Promise of Enterprise AI

Despite years of hype about AI revolutionizing the workplace and replacing human workers, the reality has proven far less transformative. A recent OpenAI report suggests employees save only about an hour per day using these tools. Many companies are scaling back AI initiatives due to concerns about cost, privacy, and security.

Patrick Lin, a researcher at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, notes that AI developers promoted “lofty, high-minded visions” that have largely failed to materialize, partly because people overestimated the capabilities of large language models.

The Rise of Erotic AI Platforms

While workplace AI may be struggling, companies like Joi AI are finding success with adult-oriented chatbots. Joi AI, registered in Cyprus, specializes in explicit bots that can role-play, indulge in fantasies, and generate sexually explicit content for paying customers.

According to spokesperson Yulia Davydova, Joi is currently profitable. Similarly, EverAI’s Candy.AI platform has demonstrated profitability based on financial statements filed in Malta. These companies offer subscription models (around $14 monthly) that provide users with “dream” AI companions and explicit content generation.

The Adult Industry’s Historical Tech Influence

The article points out that adult content has historically driven technological adoption, from VHS to digital photography to streaming video. Generative AI appears to be following this pattern, with adult use cases finding viable business models while other applications struggle.

Ethical Concerns and Partnerships

Unlike “nudify” apps that generate non-consensual deepfakes, Joi partners with adult performers like Brandi Love and Farrah Abraham, who receive compensation for the use of their likenesses. However, ethical questions remain, particularly regarding historical figures (like Mona Lisa) who never consented to such portrayals.

Experts like Kate Devlin from King’s College London warn about the “emotional commodification” that could occur with users of erotic chatbots, particularly concerning vulnerable individuals who might be manipulated into spending more than they can afford.

Major AI Companies’ Approach to Adult Content

Most major AI companies—including Anthropic, Google, Meta, and Microsoft—have banned sexually explicit outputs. However, exceptions exist: X’s Grok chatbot includes NSFW features, and OpenAI recently announced plans to allow erotic content for adult users in early 2024.

This shift has frustrated some founders in the adult tech space, like Cindy Gallop of MakeLoveNotPorn, who points to the “hypocrisy” of investors who reject adult-focused startups but don’t criticize major AI companies for similar moves.

The Future of AI and Human Connection

The article concludes that regardless of whether AI transforms the workplace as promised, erotic chatbots will likely continue to thrive and generate profits. However, it questions whether these technologies can truly satisfy the human desire for authentic connection.