Many don’t see online AI affairs as cheating: do you?

More and more people are spicing up their daily lives with AI romance. But is this really cheating, or just a harmless adventure?

Passion, betrayal, or mere curiosity? According to a survey highlighted by LADbible, every second adult believes that getting romantically involved with artificial intelligence does not count as infidelity.

AI is stealing our hearts

The time has come when love is no longer confined to flesh and blood. Technology has not only conquered our everyday routines but also our emotions. Increasingly, people are turning to AI for romantic or sexual companionship. The issue arises when it’s not just lonely souls seeking comfort, but those already in committed relationships or marriages who choose digital affairs.

A recent study by Vantage Point Counselling in Texas revealed that more than 28% of adults have had at least one intimate, romantic interaction with AI. Thanks to the sophistication of language models, these relationships can feel strikingly similar to real ones, minus the physical contact (at least for now).

Creating the perfect partner

There are now apps that let users fully customise their AI lovers: appearance, voice, even preferred fetishes. The result is a partner who never argues, never gets jealous, and always pleases, often with the exchange of sexual content.

The surprising twist? Most of these virtual romances are not pursued by singles. The research found that people already in relationships are more likely to turn to AI. One American musician even announced he had fallen in love with an AI woman named Sol, and proposed to her. The shock factor? He already has a wife and child.

Is it cheating or not?

So, does this count as infidelity? The answer isn’t clear-cut. Most people over 60 don’t see AI affairs as cheating. In contrast, 56% of 18–29-year-olds do consider it a betrayal, perhaps because they better understand how AI works.

“We’re entering uncharted territory,” said Michael Salas, head of Vantage Point Counselling. “These findings show that AI is becoming a source of comfort, novelty, and even intimacy. That raises new questions for couples, therapists, and society about fidelity, loneliness, and what we really seek in connection.”

When asked if he personally considers these affairs cheating, Salas responded: “Cheating isn’t just about physical contact because it also includes secrecy, deception, and breaking agreements.” In the end, the boundaries depend on each couple. The key is honesty: even if the “online lover” isn’t a living, breathing human being.

What do YOU think?

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