Chatbots & AI Companions: From Science Fiction to Everyday Reality By Joseph Chamie Copyright © 2026 IPS-Inter Press Service.

Chatbots & AI Companions: From Science Fiction to Everyday Reality By Joseph Chamie https://www.ipsnews.net/2026/06/chatbots-ai-companions-from-science-fiction-to-everyday-reality/?utm_source=email_marketing&utm_admin=146128&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Will_US_Opposition_to_UNs_SocioEconomic_Goals_Play_a_Decisive_Role_in_next_UN_chief_vote_Russias_LGB PORTLAND, USA, Jun 15 2026 (IPS) - AI chatbots and AI companions designed to simulate human-like conversation and provide relationships and companionship through generative artificial intelligence (AI) have rapidly evolved from science fiction into everyday reality. Globally, approximately one billion people – about 12% of the world’s population – now use generative AI chatbots monthly, with usage approaching parity among men and women. Copyright © 2026 IPS-Inter Press Service.