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AI Grief

Introduction

Michael Bommer, terminally ill with colon cancer, has created an AI version of himself to help his family cope with his impending death. This technology, developed by the AI-powered legacy platform Eternos, allows relatives to engage with his life experiences and insights.

The Concept

Bommer’s wife, Anett, expressed how much she would miss his wisdom. This led Bommer to team up with his friend Robert LoCascio, CEO of Eternos, to create an interactive AI version of himself. Eternos uses advanced AI models to capture a person’s voice and personality, allowing for meaningful interactions even after death.

Other Companies

Several other companies are exploring similar technologies. StoryFile and HereAfter AI offer interactive experiences with pre-recorded videos or life story avatars. Project December and Seance AI provide text-based conversations and fictionalized seances, respectively.

Ethical Concerns

While some find comfort in these technologies, others are uneasy about their implications. Researchers like Katarzyna Nowaczyk-Basinska from the University of Cambridge highlight the unknown long-term consequences of using digital simulations for the dead.

Personal Experiences

Robert Scott from North Carolina uses AI apps to simulate conversations with characters representing his deceased daughters. He finds it helps with his grief, although it can be emotionally challenging.

Future of AI in Grief

Bommer is optimistic about the future of AI in helping with grief. He believes that as the technology improves, it will become an even more valuable tool for preserving connections with loved ones.

However, his wife Anett remains hesitant about using the AI after his death, preferring traditional ways of remembering him.

Conclusion

AI technology offers a new way to cope with grief by creating interactive versions of deceased loved ones. While it has the potential to provide comfort, it also raises important ethical questions that society must address.

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