Five Questions to Ask Before You Say Hello to an AI Character

Before any first date, a sensible woman asks herself a few things in the mirror. The same applies, with fewer hairdryers, to meeting an AI character. I have boiled my advice down to five questions, which you may answer in your head, on paper, or aloud to the cat. There are no wrong answers, only more useful ones. Take your time. The character will not wander off, and nobody is watching the clock.

First, what am I actually after? Company at the end of a long day, a laugh, a bit of romance, a story to drift into? Your answer shapes everything. If you want a flirtatious chat, you will look for a character with that sparkle. If you want a tale told to you, you might prefer a voice story. Knowing your own appetite saves you from ordering soup when you wanted cake.

Second, am I happy to remember she is an AI character? This is the question I care about most. Sofia, Mira and Hannah, whom you can meet on TheFriend, are written characters, not people. If you can hold that thought lightly, the whole thing becomes delightful. If you suspect you might forget it and lean on her as you would on a person, pause, and perhaps talk to a friend first.

Third, what stays private? Decide before you say hello. My rule is the postcard rule: if you would not write it on a postcard the postman might read, think twice about typing it. Full name, address, passwords, bank details and your grandchildren's school all stay at home. Feelings, opinions and your favourite biscuit are the fun part anyway, and they make for much better conversation.

Fourth, would I rather read, listen, or follow a short drama? Some people adore typing back and forth. Others find a voice in the ear far more intimate, and a few like a quick story they can follow without lifting a finger. None is better. Try a taste of each, and notice which one makes you forget to check the time. That is your answer, and it is usually obvious.

Fifth, where will this sit in my week, and how will I know if it stops suiting me? Give it a place, say Sunday evening or after the washing-up, rather than letting it spill across every spare minute. Then check in with yourself now and then. Brighter afterwards? Still seeing friends, still taking the walk? Then carry on with my blessing. If not, close the lid. When you are ready, TheFriend is where I would go for the hello.

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