Meta CEO envisions AI as digital companion to combat loneliness

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has suggested that artificial intelligence (AI) could soon play a pivotal role in addressing the growing crisis of loneliness and lack of human connection, acting as both a digital companion and a form of accessible psychotherapy.

Zuckerberg discussed how AI might bridge social gaps for individuals struggling to form close relationships or afford professional mental health care, Caliber.Az reports, citing a recent episode of the AI Will Write Most Meta Code in 18 Months podcast, hosted by Dwarkesh Patel.

He said that physical connections were ideal when possible, but noted that the reality was many people felt isolated. Zuckerberg cited research indicating that the average American has fewer than three close personal contacts, despite an estimated social need for approximately 15.

He proposed that AI, though not a substitute for real human interaction, could supplement the emotional and conversational support many people currently lack. The Meta chief also addressed public skepticism about relying on algorithms for companionship, expressing confidence that these concerns will fade as the technology matures. 

Zuckerberg said that, as with many past innovations that were initially met with confusion or resistance, he believed people would eventually learn to appreciate this new form of interaction. While acknowledging that current AI tools are still in early stages, he emphasized their potential to evolve into emotionally intelligent systems capable of offering genuine support, particularly for those experiencing social isolation.

By Naila Huseynova