After some serious brainwork with my pals Xuetong and Yi, we've discovered that these relationships can be both toxic and beneficial (see Our Work: "In What Ways Do You Exist, and In What Way I Commit").

Just gonna have to imagine if you're cozying up with your AI buddy, who's always there to listen and provide the perfect topic for your mood. Sounds sweet, right? But hold on! Just like that friend who always borrows your favorite hoodie and never gives it back, AI can also be a little... possessive.

Turns out, the nature of these relationships really depends on the human user. If you treat your AI like a trusty sidekick, it can help you unleash your creativity and problem-solving skills. But if you start relying on it like a crutch, things can get a bit messy. Kind of like how I rely on coffee to function but end up jittery and regretting my life choices. ☕😅

This brings us to the philosophical musings of Heidegger and Ihde! They've got a point about technology being a tool. But let's be real, this is all about balance. Treat your AI with love but don't let it take the wheel. In the end, whether your AI turns out to be your best friend or your worst enemy depends on how you choose to use it. After all, we want our AI to enhance our lives, not turn it into a sci-fi horror movie!

Talking about the conclusion among us the three girls in today's chit-chat, in the game of love, whether it's human or AI, always read the fine print!

This has been on my mind for long ago. The natural design for us humans when it comes to our AI friends. You know, that sweet spot where technology meets our quirky human needs? Not sure whether you have the feeling that the current chatting is not so natural.

I have this idea long ago inspired by XAIR. If explanation of the conversation can enhance the user experience, what kind of presence will be the best and interesting existence?

Norman wrote in his article that natural user interfaces are not natural. Nothing comes to a result when it is valid by the amount of users and time spent. There is no natural design… like even QWERTY is not natural.

One of the funniest parts about designing for humans is the unexpected quirks we all have. I am probably the advocant for creating those funny, weird, creative, but not so common design where you will smile after you use, though it may be whimsical at first haha.

In the end, designing for humans means embracing our imperfections and making technology that works with us, not against us. It can be peculiar, creative, and realistic. Maybe we should think about what is the real meaning of design… Another unsleep night so another coffee please xd

This is like a recording of natter between me and Xuetong before we discuss our papers on human-AI intimacy. So this is sort of a behind-the-scenes look at the two works, and leading the Talking Spell.

Not Only Talking about LOVE but is AI Your New Bestie?

You might have noticed that AI is popping up everywhere these days. From the AI to-do apps that help you organizing so many tasks a day (because let's be honest, we'd forget otherwise), these digital buddies are becoming part of our daily lives. They're like that friend who always has your back, even if they don't quite get your sense of humor.

The Good, the Bad, and the Quirky

Now, while AI can be a real gem, it's also got its fair share of hiccups. There's that nagging worry about dependency. I actually feel like we are relying AI so much that sometimes I am not sure I am the one coding or it is. Yikes! Plus, there's the whole job thing to think about. Are robots going to take over the world? Maybe, but for now, I just hope they don't steal my coffee.

Trust is key in any relationship, right? It literally should be no different with AI. We need to know that our digital pals are looking out for us and not plotting to take over (cue the dramatic music). This can be subjective… but if we can trust them, then we can really start to enjoy the ride.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Looking ahead, imagine a world where humans and AI team up to create amazing things in the very natural manner (not so natural actually so that's the start of Talking Spell)! Think about artists using AI to spark new ideas or scientists crunching numbers faster than we can say "quantum physics." It's all about collaboration. AI can help us be our best selves while we keep the spark of creativity alive. TOOL IS ON US.

So by the end, if you are asking me if AI will be my bestie, ay, who knows? Even if it may not be but it is definitely the one who understands me the most… actually already more than my parents.