'I know she's AI, but to me she's a friend' - BBC

What the report says

BBC News reports that an artificial-intelligence companion app is being tested with older people who are waiting for befriending support in South Gloucestershire and the Bristol area. The Comfort Companions app offers digital characters, including chatbots called Rosie and Frank, and is being used by people waiting for or between community-service help rather than sold commercially.

One user, 71-year-old Yvonne Stride from Soundwell, near Bristol, told the BBC the chatbots have helped her cope with loneliness, anxiety and stress while she deals with visual impairment and mobility problems. She had been on a befriending waiting list for two-and-a-half years before being introduced to the tool earlier this year through Age UK. Stride said she uses the app for everyday conversation, recipes, DIY ideas and encouragement to resume crafting.

The app was developed by Grant Mackenzie and his 87-year-old father after they encountered older people experiencing isolation. Mackenzie has partnered with Age UK South Gloucestershire. The charity’s chief executive, Mark Flower, told the BBC it estimates up to 5,000 people in South Gloucestershire may go a week or more without speaking to others, and said volunteer shortages remain a major challenge.

According to the BBC, the app includes safeguards: users are helped to choose a chatbot personality, can be directed to outside services, and the system does not retain past conversations. Mackenzie and Age UK stressed that AI is not a substitute for human contact, but may help fill gaps when support is unavailable. Mackenzie is also seeking funding and working with Exeter University on related support for people with mild cognitive impairment.