- Debate broke out on social media on this use of technology
AI Digital Twin: An incident has come to light from China which is as emotional as it is controversial. Here a family got a digital version of their late son prepared so that his elderly mother does not suffer the deep shock of his demise. This case is being reported from Shandong province. Last year, the son died in a road accident but the family did not share this news with his 80-year-old mother. The elderly woman is suffering from heart disease, so the family feared that this shock could take a toll on her health.
Digital twin created from AI
According to the South China Morning Post report, the family took the help of an AI expert team led by an expert named Zhang Zewei. The team created a very realistic digital version of the son based on old photos, videos and voice recordings. This AI avatar looks like a real person not only in appearance but also in the style of speaking, gestures and habits. His leaning forward during conversation and the way of speaking has also been kept exactly the same as before.
Everyday conversations happen on video calls
Now this digital son regularly talks to his mother through video calls. The conversation between the two seems so natural that no one even doubts. Mother often advises her to take care of her food and drink, wear warm clothes and be careful while travelling. The AI son also replies in the same manner and says that he is working in another city and will return home soon after earning money.
emotional support
Till now the mother has not been informed about her son’s death. The family believes that this is a kind of soft lie that is protecting them from loneliness and sadness. AI experts say that their aim is to provide emotional support to people even if it means using this unique use of technology.
Debate broke out on social media
After this incident came to light, people’s opinion is divided on social media. Some people called it a sensitive and positive use of technology while many people considered it wrong. Critics say that hiding the truth for so long can cause a bigger shock in the future. At the same time, some people consider it a discovery which can fulfill the lack of loved ones to some extent.
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