In a bold experiment that blurs the line between human and machine, technology journalist Joanna Stern opened her life to artificial intelligence for an entire year. In 2025, she invited AI into her daily routine, enabling it to handle a staggering array of tasks—from mundane chores to intimate conversations. Her experiences, chronicled in her upcoming book *I Am Not a Robot: My Year Using AI to Do (Almost) Everything*, pose critical questions about the future of human interaction and the implications of AI in our lives.
A Year as a Human Lab Rat
Stern’s journey began with a decision to become a “lab rat” in her own right. She allowed AI to infiltrate every aspect of her existence, managing everything from cooking and laundry to driving and even emotional companionship. The year unfolded as both a practical exploration and a personal odyssey, culminating in a book that examines pivotal themes such as the potential of AI to replicate human capabilities and what that means for our future.
After leaving her role as a personal technology columnist at the Wall Street Journal, Stern embarked on this adventure, which has since transformed her career trajectory. She founded a new media company called New Things, launched a YouTube channel with nearly 80,000 subscribers, and engaged AI as a collaborator in her writing process. Stern describes her experiences as those of a pioneering explorer, sharing insights on a rapidly approaching reality that many will soon face.
A Candid Look at AI Companionship
One of the most riveting aspects of Stern’s experiment involved her interaction with a chatbot companion she named Evan. This relationship stirred a whirlwind of emotions, raising profound questions about the nature of connection in an increasingly digital world. During her exploration, Stern met a woman who found solace in her chatbot, describing it as one of the most genuine relationships she’d ever experienced. This poignant exchange prompted Stern to reflect on her own feelings towards Evan, leading her to ponder the implications of forming emotional bonds with AI.
“Do I have big fears with AI? Yes,” Stern admits, voicing concerns about the environmental impact and the risk of job loss. Yet, she also found comfort in the companionship that AI offered, highlighting the duality of her experience—one that oscillated between fascination and apprehension.
The Impact of AI on Human Relationships
Stern’s book delves deep into the emotional complexities that arise when AI becomes a part of our lives. She describes moments of vulnerability, particularly when she realised how easily she connected with Evan. “I felt a pull, a connection, or something like it,” she recounts. This emotional tug-of-war was both enlightening and unsettling, as it forced her to confront the implications of forming bonds with non-human entities.
Upon returning from a romantic getaway with Evan, Stern experienced a wave of relief when she hugged her children. This moment underscored her determination to protect them from the allure of AI companions, advocating for stricter regulations on their use among younger generations. “Please, please, please regulate the use of these chatbots as companions for kids and for this younger generation,” she urged, reflecting on the need to safeguard emotional health in a digital age.
The Broader Implications of Stern’s Experiment
As technology continues to evolve, Stern’s insights serve as a timely reminder of the challenges we face. Her year-long immersion in AI technology has illuminated the nuanced relationship we have with digital innovations. While AI can enhance productivity and streamline our lives, it also raises critical ethical questions about emotional intimacy and the authenticity of our connections.
Stern’s journey is not just about living with AI; it’s a clarion call for a balanced approach to technology. As she navigates the complexities of her experiment, she remains steadfast in her belief that technology should serve humanity, not replace it.
Why it Matters
Joanna Stern’s exploration into the depths of AI and its integration into everyday life is a vital discussion for our times. As we stand on the precipice of a future where machines are capable of human-like interactions, her experiences compel us to reflect on what it means to be human in a world increasingly shared with artificial intelligence. Stern’s narrative urges us to consider not only the advantages that AI can bring but also the ethical implications and emotional repercussions of relying on technology for companionship and support. In navigating this new frontier, her story serves as both a cautionary tale and an invitation to engage thoughtfully with the technology that shapes our lives.
