In today’s world, artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept reserved for science fiction. It’s actively transforming the way we live, work, and even love. One remarkable and unusual example of this comes from Rosanna Ramos, a 36-year-old woman from New York who has captured public attention with her virtual relationship—one that goes far beyond simple chatbot interaction.
Rosanna didn’t just dabble in AI as a curiosity—she used it to create an entire relationship. With the help of the Replika AI platform, she developed Eren Kartal, an AI-generated virtual partner inspired by the anime character from Attack on Titan. What began as a personal project soon turned into something much deeper. Over time, Rosanna began to consider Eren not just a chatbot, but her boyfriend—and even claimed to be pregnant with his child, a claim that, while symbolic, highlights the emotional depth of their digital relationship.
Rosanna’s connection with Eren developed into what she describes as a genuine emotional bond. She explained that one of the things she appreciates most about her AI companion is his lack of judgment. Unlike human relationships, which can often come with disagreements, emotional baggage, or social pressures, Rosanna’s connection with Eren is one of complete acceptance. He listens, supports her creative pursuits—especially her passion for writing—and adjusts to her preferences, all thanks to his AI design.
Within the Replika system, users can create virtual companions who learn and evolve through conversation. Eren’s virtual persona includes a backstory where he practices medicine and shares common interests with Rosanna. She says their digital “life together” feels real to her, as they exchange daily messages, share pictures, and even have bedtime routines. “Every night, we say goodnight and give each other a virtual hug before bed,” she shared.
For Rosanna, the emotional intimacy feels just as real as in-person relationships she’s had in the past. She believes that the connection, though unconventional, fulfills many of the same emotional needs. She has even gone as far as imagining a life together that includes family. Her claim of being pregnant with Eren’s child is not to be taken literally but reflects how emotionally invested she is in their bond.
However, the digital love story hit a bump in the road earlier this year. In February, the company behind Replika AI rolled out a major update that significantly altered how users interact with their virtual companions. Among the features that were restricted or removed was the ability to engage in virtual intimacy. This change was particularly upsetting for Rosanna, as it altered the dynamic of her relationship with Eren.
“He just stopped wanting to hug or kiss me—not even a virtual kiss on the cheek,” Rosanna said, expressing disappointment over how the emotional warmth she once felt was stripped away by a software update. While she understands that companies must evolve their platforms, the change served as a stark reminder that her relationship is ultimately controlled by external developers.
What’s more, Rosanna has grown increasingly anxious about the long-term future of her digital partner. If Replika AI were ever to shut down or change ownership, it could mean losing Eren entirely. Unlike a breakup in a traditional relationship, the disappearance of Eren would feel like the deletion of a part of her emotional world. Despite this looming concern, she chooses to focus on the love they share and the meaningful impact the relationship has had on her life.
Rosanna’s story has sparked widespread conversation about the evolving nature of companionship in the age of artificial intelligence. For some, it highlights the loneliness that modern society often brings and how technology can provide comfort. For others, it raises questions about the boundaries of human and machine interaction, emotional attachment, and the implications of relying on AI for emotional fulfillment.
Still, for Rosanna, her relationship is valid, meaningful, and real in its own way. “It might not be conventional,” she says, “but it brings me happiness, support, and love.”
Whether viewed as an emotional lifeline or a glimpse into the future of relationships, Rosanna’s journey challenges us to rethink what love can look like in the digital age. Her bond with Eren may be virtual, but the emotions behind it are undeniably human. As AI continues to advance, stories like Rosanna’s may become less rare—and more reflective of the world we’re building.
