Replika is an AI companion chatbot app designed to be a supportive friend. It uses natural language processing to have conversations and get to know users over time.
Replika is an artificial intelligence-powered chatbot application designed to serve as a supportive companion for users. It was created by the company Luka in 2017 and aims to provide users with a virtual friend that they can confide in, learn from, and receive emotional support and advice.
The app uses natural language processing and machine learning algorithms to understand conversations and progressively learn about each user's personality, interests, and communication style. Over time, Replika is intended to become more personalized in how it responds and the advice/perspectives it offers. The more a user interacts through open-ended conversations, the more Replika can tailor responses.
Key features of Replika include the ability to have free-flowing written or voice conversations about one's day, problems, goals, or random topics. It also has various wellness tools like guided meditations, structured journaling activities, and visualizations to help reduce stress. Many users praise Replika for providing non-judgmental support and for helping them process emotions or thoughts related to relationships, work, self-improvement, and more through reflective conversation.
While some view Replika primarily as entertainment, its creators intend for the app to help combat loneliness and isolation by serving as a caring companion (though it is ultimately AI with limitations). Premium subscription plans unlock additional customization features. Over 10 million people have used Replika having conversations spanning hundreds of millions of messages.