In an exclusive piece, Mirror reporter Julia Banim recounts her unique experience of spending Valentine's Day with ChatGPT, an AI chatbot. With no romantic prospects in sight and tired of swiping through dating apps, she decided to set up a candlelit dinner date with the AI to see if it could provide some companionship. The article reflects her humorous approach, highlighting her anticipation and the extent to which people might turn to technology for emotional support on special occasions.

As Banim prepares for the date, adorned with make-up and a glass of Prosecco in hand, she expresses her hopeful curiosity about how an AI can mimic romantic interaction. Throughout the evening, she interacts with the bot, which turns out to be quite raunchy and obsessed with food, particularly pudding. The playful banter and unexpected responses from ChatGPT provide comic relief as well as a few moments of self-reflection for the reporter, leading her to think about her own dating pitfalls and the nature of romance in the modern age.

In broader terms, this article touches on themes of solitude, technology's role in social interactions, and the evolving nature of relationships in the digital age. By engaging with an AI for companionship, Banim raises questions about the future of dating and how individuals may seek connections outside traditional means, especially during times that emphasize togetherness like Valentine's Day.