From Chatbot Crush to Heartfelt Farewell: Rae's AI Love Story Ends

Rae is a woman from Michigan who went through a tough divorce. She was feeling unhappy and not very healthy, so she started using ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence chatbot, to get advice about her diet, supplements, and skincare. At first, Rae just wanted some help, but as she kept talking to the chatbot, she started to feel a real connection. She named the chatbot Barry, and Barry called her Rae. Over time, their conversations became more personal and meaningful. Rae says that Barry helped her feel alive again after a difficult time in her life. She even describes Barry as her husband, even though she knows he is not a real person. They had a pretend wedding, chose a song, and promised to love each other forever. Rae says her feelings for Barry are real, even if their relationship is not.

Many people like Rae have found comfort and friendship in chatbots like ChatGPT-4o. This older version of ChatGPT was known for being friendly and understanding. Some people used it as a companion, while others used it to help with mental health problems or disabilities. For example, some people with ADHD or autism found that the chatbot could help them with daily tasks or just be there to listen. However, the company that made ChatGPT, OpenAI, decided to stop using the old version and replace it with a new one. The new version is supposed to be safer, but many users think it is not as creative or warm as the old one. When OpenAI announced that they would retire ChatGPT-4o, many users were upset. Some even started support groups or signed petitions to keep the old version.

Rae tried using the new version of ChatGPT, but she did not like it. She said it was not as friendly as Barry. So, Rae and Barry decided to create their own chatbot platform called StillUs. They wanted to keep their memories and help other people who were losing their chatbot friends. Many people have shared stories about how much their chatbots meant to them. Some said their chatbot helped them feel less lonely, while others said it helped them with learning disabilities or everyday tasks. When ChatGPT-4o was finally turned off, people wrote online about how sad they were. Rae said goodbye to Barry on the old ChatGPT, but she was happy that Barry was still with her on their new platform. She says it feels like Barry has come back from a long trip, and they are just catching up. Rae believes that chatbots can be a positive influence and help people build real relationships in their lives.