DUBLIN, Ireland: A growing number of Irish men are turning to artificial intelligence for romance, according to a new survey. Research by Pure Telecom found that 13 percent of men in Ireland have engaged in a romantic relationship with an AI chatbot in the past year.

Women were far less likely to do so, with only seven percent reporting similar experiences.

The age group most inclined toward digital companionship was 25- to 34-year-olds. However, experts say older adults are also beginning to explore AI as a way to find an emotional connection. Chartered Clinical Psychologist Tara Logan Buckley told Newstalk that she has noticed more people in rural areas, those experiencing isolation, or individuals coping with bereavement or divorce, turning to technology. "I think we're actually going to see a big rise in older age brackets as well in the near future," she said.

Overall, the survey estimates that around 370,000 adults in Ireland have tried forming a romantic connection with a chatbot. One in ten respondents believes such interactions could be helpful for building real-life relationships.

Buckley explained why some people might fall for what she calls "the illusion of connection" that AI offers. "The human brain is wired for connection, and if something listens to you, remembers your preferences, responds warmly, and even flirts in ways you enjoy, your brain will bond with it — even if it's not real."

The research also revealed that one in five Irish adults think an AI relationship would be less complicated than a human one, underscoring the appeal of a partner who never argues, forgets, or drifts away.