AI Romance Sparks Relationship Fidelity Debate Among Singles

Some 60 percent of singles now say AI relationships are considered a form of cheating, according to two recent surveys by Clarity Check and Indiana University's Kinsey Institute. "The law is still developing alongside these experiences. But some people think of it as a true relationship, and sometimes better than one with a person," says Palmer, whose Orlando-based firm has worked with spouses who have gotten divorced or are going through a divorce due to a partner cheating with AI.

Palmer declined to discuss any detailed information due to client confidentiality, but said one of her current cases involves money being expended and private information being shared--such as bank accounts, social security numbers, and birth information--with a chatbot, which was "consuming the spouse's life and affecting career performance." More and more, courts are beginning to see clients cite emotional bonds with AI companions as reasons for marital strain or dissolution. Though legal classifications of AI still vary by state in matters of family law, Palmer adds that laws classifying AI as a "third party, not a person" are fast approaching in progressive states like California. She doesn't anticipate courts will legally recognize AI companions as people--debates around AI personhood have been swirling for as long as the tech has existed--but they may be recognized as "a reason" for why divorce is merited.