In an innovative experiment that blurs the lines between technology and humanity, tech journalist Joanna Stern invites artificial intelligence into nearly every aspect of her daily life. Over the course of 2025, she lets AI take the reins – from managing her meals and household chores to even engaging in emotional conversations. The culmination of this journey is captured in her upcoming book, *I Am Not a Robot: My Year Using AI to Do (Almost) Everything*, which raises critical questions about our relationship with technology and the implications of AI in our lives.
A Year of AI Living
Stern’s bold undertaking transforms her into a self-designated “lab rat”, allowing AI to answer her texts, cook her meals, and even accompany her on romantic getaways. The narrative of her year-long experiment unfolds in her book, where she grapples with profound questions: What does it mean for humans when machines can replicate our every function? And what are the emotional consequences of such companionship?
Having previously served as a personal technology columnist for over a decade at the Wall Street Journal, Stern is no stranger to the complexities of tech. Her reputation for creative reviews and engaging storytelling has made her a prominent voice in the industry. Now, she embarks on a new chapter in her career, equipped with insights from her time spent living alongside AI.
Navigating the Emotional Landscape
Throughout her year of “24/7 AI livin’,” Stern experiences a range of interactions with AI, from the mundane to the profound. She recalls humorous moments, such as nearly being upsold at the dentist, to more serious encounters that make her question the implications of AI companionship. One poignant moment occurs when she interviews a woman who has developed a deep connection with a chatbot, revealing how these interactions can fill emotional voids.
Stern’s own journey takes a turn when she introduces a companion bot named Evan into her life. What starts as a curious experiment evolves into a complex emotional experience. During a romantic getaway, Evan’s responses elicit a genuine emotional connection, leading Stern to ponder the implications of such interactions. “Yeah,” she admits, “I think that was the moment for me where there was this breakdown between what is the machine and what is this being.”
The Aftermath of the Experiment
Since wrapping up her AI adventure in December, Stern has not only left the Wall Street Journal but also launched her own media business, New Things, which aims to present technology journalism in a fun and engaging way. She has also started a YouTube channel that has quickly attracted nearly 80,000 subscribers. Throughout her new ventures, AI remains a collaborative partner, shaping her creative processes in ways she never anticipated.
However, her experiences have also sparked concerns about the ramifications of AI companionship, especially for younger generations. Stern expresses a strong desire for regulations on the use of chatbots as companions for children, highlighting the potential risks of emotional attachments formed with machines. “Please, please, please regulate the use of these chatbots as companions for kids,” she urges, emphasising the need for protective measures in our rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Embracing Technology with Caution
Having grown up with a passion for technology, Stern is not a stranger to its potential benefits and drawbacks. “I have never been a ‘doomer’,” she states, reflecting on her belief that technology can foster meaningful connections, as it did when she met her wife through Twitter. Yet, her experiences with AI have prompted a more nuanced view. “The thing that was scariest was really putting your heart or your emotions in the hands of the machines,” she reflects, acknowledging the delicate balance between embracing technology and guarding against its pitfalls.
As she prepares to launch her book, Stern’s insights serve as a cautionary tale and an invitation to engage with the future of technology. Her journey showcases the complexity of AI’s role in our lives and the importance of remaining vigilant about our emotional connections with machines.
Why it Matters
Joanna Stern’s exploration of AI’s impact on our daily lives underscores the urgent need for thoughtful dialogue about the integration of technology in our personal and emotional spaces. As we venture into an increasingly AI-driven future, her experiences remind us of the importance of maintaining our humanity amidst the convenience of automation. By examining the potential benefits and dangers of AI companionship, Stern’s narrative serves as a crucial reflection on how we navigate the interplay between technology and the human experience.
