A Multidimensional Examination of “AI Virtual Lovers” from the Perspective of Media Affordances:An Exploration Based on Grounded Theory

Abstract

The emergence of “AI virtual lovers” applications marks the advancement of artificial intelligence technology, gradually acquiring human-like emotional traits. However, the social ethics and privacy issues arising from current technological development cannot be ignored. Therefore, in-depth research on this phenomenon is essential for understanding the relationship between technology and society. This paper adopts a media affordance theory perspective and employs grounded theory methodology to conduct an in-depth analysis of “AI virtual lovers”. By exploring technical, social, and emotional affordances, it reveals how these AI companions fulfill user needs, facilitate social interactions, and evoke emotional experiences. Simultaneously, it examines challenges such as technological limitations, ethical dilemmas, and privacy concerns, proposing corresponding solutions. While pursuing technological innovation for the future development of “AI virtual lovers”, emphasis should also be placed on ethical norms. Only through this approach can we achieve harmonious human-machine relationships and maximize the social benefits of these AI companions.