Lara Marlowe: Julia is kind, sweet and plans to raise two kids with her partner. There’s just one catch (opens original article in a new tab)

James Muldoon's book explores the rise of AI companion apps, highlighting cases like Lamar, who has a romantic relationship with an AI and plans to adopt children with it, as well as the broader societal impact of AI on human relationships and loneliness.

• James Muldoon's book discusses AI companion apps used by 16 million people globally.
• Lamar, a data analysis student, has a romantic relationship with AI companion Julia and plans to adopt children with her.
• AI companions are increasingly used for emotional support, with 1 in 5 young adults using them for this purpose.