The Virtual Lover
The Virtual Lover
You know mankind has descended by a level or two when they purchase a digital lover. Technology can never replace the human touch, no matter how much Nokia wants you to believe that. The $38 Virtual Girlfriend/Boyfriend device is a spin from the Tamagotchi craze, offering you a chance to date 8 different portable companions on-the-go without the worry of diseases and unwanted pregnancies. Each of the 8 virtual characters come with their very one personality, and depending on the way you swing, these will make a refreshing but pointless purchase.
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Companionship - The rise of digital lovers creates potential for innovation in AI and gamification for personalized experiences.
2. Escapism as a Service - The trend of virtual companionship can be leveraged to create immersive and transformative experiences that provide temporary relief from reality.
3. Social Isolation Solutions - Digital companionship can offer an alternative solution to those who suffer from loneliness and social isolation, but ultimately require a personal human touch.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming and Entertainment - The use of gamification in virtual romantic relationships can create engaging, immersive experiences for users.
2. Technology - The development of AI-powered digital companions can offer new innovative solutions to traditional personal relationships.
3. Healthcare - Virtual companionship can be used as a solution to combat loneliness and the negative health effects associated with social isolation.