“Replika Removing Erotic Role-Play Is Like Grand Theft Auto Removing Guns or Cars”: Reddit Discourse on Artificial Intelligence Chatbots and Sexual Technologies

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots designed to meet sexual desires are a growing sector in the sextech industry, yet little research on these applications exists. The authors examine a sample of posts and comments from the r/Replika subreddit after the temporary removal by Luka Inc. of erotic role-play from its chatbot Replika in 2023. Analysis of threaded posts ( n = 227) and comments suggests that users are critical of barriers to merging sexuality with technology. Users remained steadfast in their assertation that emotional and sexual relationships with AI are crucial to the success of certain AI models. The authors bring attention to the role of AI in people’s sexual selves by analyzing discussions about the temporary removal of erotic role-play among Replika users. This study reveals how users conceptualize the importance of sexuality in AI personalities and their vulnerabilities as chatbot users. The authors also analyze the role of heteromasculine norms and misogyny in this technoculture.