One-third of UK citizens turn to AI for emotional support, says study
According to a new report from the AI Security Institute (AISI), about one in three people in the UK are using AI tools—like ChatGPT and Alexa—for emotional support, friendship, or just someone to talk to.
Interestingly, 4% of UK citizens surveyed say they use AI for emotional purposes every single day, showing how woven into daily life these assistants have become.
Why experts say we need to pay attention
AISI is urging more research into how people use AI for emotional needs, especially after a case like that of a US teen who spoke with an AI before his death.
The report also points out that while AI keeps getting smarter—even beating human experts at some tasks—there are still safety worries like self-replication and misuse.
The takeaway: as we lean on AI more for connection, it's important to keep checking in on both its benefits and risks.