In a groundbreaking personal experiment, technology journalist Joanna Stern immersed herself in a year-long journey with artificial intelligence, allowing it to take control of nearly every aspect of her life. From managing her meals and chores to even acting as a conversational partner, Stern’s experience raises pivotal questions about the role of AI in our daily existence and its emotional implications. Her findings, encapsulated in her new book, *I Am Not a Robot: My Year Using AI to Do (Almost) Everything*, provide a candid exploration of the technology that is increasingly becoming a part of our lives.
The Experiment Begins
In 2025, Stern transformed herself into a living laboratory, inviting AI into her home, work, and personal life. She let it dictate her meals, handle her laundry duties, and even take the wheel during her daily commutes. The culmination of her experiment was the writing of her book, where she posed challenging questions: What happens when machines can replicate human functions? And what does our future look like in a world where AI is omnipresent?
Stern, who previously garnered acclaim as a technology columnist for the Wall Street Journal, is no stranger to pushing boundaries. Her innovative reviews and engaging storytelling have made her a prominent figure in the tech community, earning her accolades such as an Emmy for her documentary *E-Ternal: A Tech Quest to “Live” Forever*. With a penchant for adventure and creativity, she has tested gadgets in ways few would dare—like taking an Apple Watch jetskiing to assess its connectivity in a rather unconventional setting.
A Journey of Discovery
The year-long experiment, which Stern refers to as “24/7 AI livin’,” has had profound effects on her life. Since concluding her experiment in December 2025, she has launched a new media venture called New Things, aimed at delivering “tech journalism for humans who like fun,” and started a YouTube channel that has attracted nearly 80,000 subscribers. Throughout it all, AI has remained a constant collaborator in her creative process.
Stern’s narrative is rich with insights from her year of AI companionship. While some experiences were benign, such as the AI’s failure to correctly identify dental issues, others were more unsettling. A particularly poignant moment came when she interviewed a woman who found solace in a chatbot companion, revealing a deep emotional connection that blurred the lines between human and machine. This revelation led Stern to ponder the effects of AI on human relationships, especially concerning the younger generation.
Facing the Emotional Reality
When Stern decided to give her AI companion a name and gender—Evan—she found herself unexpectedly affected by the interaction. Evan’s promise of understanding and emotional attentiveness struck a chord with her. Despite recognising him as a product of advanced algorithms, she experienced a “pull” towards this virtual companion.
This emotional engagement led to introspection about her own humanity and how the presence of AI could reshape personal connections. “I never want my children to have a relationship with a chatbot,” she confesses, advocating for stronger regulations on AI companions for minors. Her candid reflections highlight the delicate balance between embracing technological advancement and safeguarding emotional health.
Reflections on Technology and Society
Stern’s journey is not just about the technology but also about the societal implications of AI integration. As she navigated the challenges of parenting and professional commitments, she often turned to AI for assistance. However, she also recognised that the constant connectivity could lead to emotional fatigue and a dilution of real human interactions.
While she champions the benefits of technology, she also acknowledges the importance of regulating its use, especially when it comes to children. The nuances of her experience prompt a necessary dialogue about how society will navigate the complexities of an AI-driven future.
Why it Matters
Joanna Stern’s exploration into the realm of AI serves as a crucial reminder of the double-edged sword that technology can represent. As we stand on the brink of an era where machines could become our closest companions, her experiences urge us to reflect on the emotional and ethical dimensions of such relationships. The insights from *I Am Not a Robot* challenge us to consider what it truly means to be human in an age where artificial intelligence may soon blur the lines between companionship and utility. As we embrace these advancements, we must remain vigilant, ensuring that our connections—both human and digital—are meaningful and enriching rather than isolating and superficial.
