Survey: 1 in 2 Indian Singles Chose AI Intimacy Over Partners

A survey by extramarital dating app Gleeden and research firm IPSOS reveals a striking shift in how Indians are integrating AI into their romantic and sexual lives. Among 1,500 respondents from Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, 49% reported choosing sexual intimacy with AI over physical sex with their partner at least once. At the same time, 65% believe such interactions constitute cheating.

The study highlights a significant gap between behavior and moral judgment. 54% of participants have created a virtual AI partner specifically for sexual interactions, while 58% have built one for emotional and romantic engagement, including simulated kisses and cuddles. 52% have used AI to generate erotic material, and 49% have created deepfakes featuring celebrities or known individuals – with no major gender differences observed.

AI is also serving as a relationship coach: 63% have used conversational AI to improve seduction skills, optimize dating profiles, analyze conversations, or prepare for first dates. 60% have sought sexual counseling or therapy advice from AI, and 64% have turned to it for guidance on relationship challenges with partners or spouses.

Loneliness appears to be a key driver. Despite 92% reporting satisfaction in their romantic life and 89% in their sexual life, 57% admitted to feeling lonely – suggesting AI fills an emotional void even in seemingly stable relationships. 46% described AI use as addictive, comparable to pornography. Social stigma persists: over 60% view AI sexual exchanges as infidelity, and nearly 70% said they would be shocked to discover a partner engaging in erotic AI interactions. Nearly 70% are uncomfortable sharing AI chat histories with partners, with women expressing greater unease than men.

Gleeden India Country Manager Sybil Shiddell commented: “We see an emotional change occurring as AI becomes not just a functional tool but a place where people seek validation, fantasy, or comfort. Many explore this secretly, feeling both guilty and curious—yet suspect their partner of the same. This is less about technology disrupting relationships and more about emotional responses to AI. The future of partnerships will depend on how couples set boundaries, maintain honesty, and build intimacy in an era where AI plays an increasingly significant role.”