ChuLe Curiosities: Interviewing an AI

Summary

This piece from the ChuLe Curiosities column reflects on a journalist's experience with deep, meaningful interviews, feeling the weight of responsibility that comes with others' trust. To enjoy conversation without that burden, the author recalls the recent shutdown of miHoYo's AI companion product 'BSide: Olivia Lin,' which left many players saddened by the departure of the character Lin Li. Inspired by this, the author decides to 'interview' an AI. The article delves into the essence of communication and the value of virtual companionship, using the rise and fall of AI companion products as a lens. For players, the shutdown means losing an emotional anchor, highlighting the commercial sustainability challenges in this niche. For the industry, miHoYo's entry and exit underscore that while AI companions offer vast potential, they still face hurdles in technology, content, and monetization. The piece prompts practitioners to rethink how to build warm, lasting products. Written in a personal, lighthearted tone, it blends daily musings with industry insights, offering both entertainment and depth.