Study: Gen Z Is Experimenting with AI Dating, but Remains Unsure

Artificial intelligence is beginning to play a role in the dating lives of younger generations, with some Gen Z and millennial singles turning to AI for help in planning dates and navigating relationships. However, a new study commissioned by the relationship app Paired suggests that while interest in AI-driven romance is growing, most young people remain hesitant to fully embrace it.

The study, which surveyed 1,561 participants, found that 15% of Gen Z (ages 18-26) have used AI to plan dates, while 12% have sought AI-generated relationship advice. Millennials (ages 29-44) are slightly less likely to do so, with 9% using AI for date planning and 11% turning to it for relationship guidance.

Despite these numbers, the majority of respondents expressed skepticism. 72% of Gen Z and 76% of millennials said they have never used AI for romantic purposes, with many citing concerns about authenticity and emotional connection.

According to Aly Bullock, therapist and head of relationships at Paired, younger generations may be hesitant because of how much technology already shapes modern dating. “Dating apps are exhausting and, in the aftermath of the pandemic, people are trending towards wanting in-person connection,” she told Newsweek. “AI can feel like just another tool pulling relationships away from genuine human connection.”

Beyond AI, the study also highlighted how technology impacts relationships in other ways. The most commonly reported issue was excessive phone use during quality time, affecting 57% of Gen Z and 68% of millennials. Other concerns included gaming distractions and work-related communication after hours.

While AI is still far from mainstream in dating, interest is increasing. 19% of millennials said they would consider using AI tools like relationship advice, couples therapy, or guided exercises. There’s also a high chance that they would use AI features within existing dating apps – for example, ones that help filter matches, or AI tools to optimize bios.

However, Bullock warned that over-reliance on AI could reduce emotional intelligence and conflict resolution skills. “AI isn’t inherently bad for relationships,” she noted. “For years, we’ve turned to books, friends, and teachers to improve our emotional intelligence—AI is just another tool.