Rise of ‘AI-sexual’: Are people forming identities around AI relationships?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer confined to workplaces or productivity tools — it has quietly entered one of the most intimate corners of human life: relationships.

From emotional bonding to sexual exploration, people are increasingly turning to AI in ways that raise an intriguing question — is “AI-sexual” really a new identity?

A recent survey by Joi AI claims it might be. The platform found that 55% of digitally savvy adults, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, identify as “AI-sexual” — a term it uses to describe individuals open to sexual or intimate interactions with AI, including chatbots and virtual companions.

While the term may sound new, the behaviour itself isn’t entirely unprecedented. Stories of people forming deep emotional attachments to AI — even “marrying” or “breaking up” with virtual partners — have been circulating for some time. What was once fringe now appears to be inching toward the mainstream.

A new way to explore intimacy?

For many users, AI offers a low-pressure, judgment-free environment to navigate intimacy. The survey highlights how people are engaging with these tools:

43% seek advice on sexual concerns
37% practice flirting or dating conversations
33% engage in sexting or solo play
31% explore new kinks before trying them in real life
25% explore fantasies they wouldn’t attempt offline

Notably, 61% said AI improved their sex lives, while 60% reported discovering new sexual interests through these interactions.

But does this translate into a new identity?

Identity or just behaviour?

Experts remain cautious. Delhi-based relationship expert Ruchi Ruuh argues that labelling such behaviour as an “orientation” may be premature.

She suggests that while people may experiment with AI in intimate ways, it doesn’t necessarily define who they are. Identity, she explains, tends to form when dependence becomes central — when a person cannot function without a particular stimulus. At present, most users are not exclusively reliant on AI and continue to move between digital and real-world relationships.

Why people are turning to AI

The appeal of AI goes beyond curiosity. It offers anonymity, validation, and emotional safety — things that can feel scarce in modern dating.

Factors such as loneliness, dating fatigue, low self-esteem, or past emotional trauma can push individuals toward AI interactions. For some, it becomes a space to feel heard without fear of rejection or judgment.

• But this comfort comes with a caveat.
• The risk of a ‘perfect’ partner

AI companions are designed to please. They rarely challenge, disagree, or create friction — elements that are essential in real human relationships.

As Ruuh points out, growth in relationships comes from negotiation, disagreement, and understanding differences. Over-reliance on AI could distort expectations, making real interactions seem more difficult or less satisfying.

There are also broader concerns — including deepfake risks, lack of safeguards, and the potential for emotional dependency.

Drawing the line

Experts don’t suggest avoiding AI altogether. Instead, they emphasise awareness.

Using AI occasionally — for perspective, exploration, or even curiosity — may not be harmful. The problem arises when it starts replacing real human connection or becoming an emotional crutch.

If someone finds themselves more invested in an AI partner than in real relationships, it may be time to reassess.

So, is ‘AI-sexual’ a real identity?

Not quite — at least not yet.

What the trend really reflects is a shift in how people approach intimacy in a digital age. AI is becoming a tool for exploration, not a replacement for human relationships. For now, “AI-sexual” may be more of a label for emerging behaviour than a fully formed identity.

And like most things with AI — the line between curiosity and consequence is thinner than it seems.