Can AI companionship cure loneliness – or deepen it?
- Sherry Turkle

- Feb 27
- 1 min read
PBS News Horizons - (February 27, 2026) Horizons moderator William Brangham explores AI relationships with Sherry Turkle, Justin Gregg and Nick Thompson.

For some, artificial intelligence tools answer questions and make life more efficient. But for others, AI has become a form of companionship – a virtual friend, a therapist, even a romantic partner. Is AI a cure for loneliness? Or is this a symptom of something gone very wrong? Horizons moderator William Brangham explores AI relationships with Sherry Turkle, Justin Gregg and Nick Thompson. > View Video



My physical therapy after a minor tendon injury included light finger-tapping drills, and my therapist mentioned tools like Space Bar Clicker to make repetitive exercises less boring. I was hesitant since most "click test" sites feel gimmicky, but this one balanced simplicity with real usefulness well. Short duration options meant I could stop before overexerting my hand, and having a visible number gave me something concrete to reference in follow-up appointments. Not a medical device by any means, just a helpful companion for staying consistent with home exercises. Loads quickly, no account needed, which matters when you're dealing with limited hand mobility. Worth asking your therapist if it fits your plan.
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this article raises a crucial question about the nature of ai relationships. while ai can offer immediate interaction, it's worth considering if it addresses the root of loneliness or simply provides a distraction. the discussion with experts like sherry turkle is important for understanding the long-term social implications. the structure of the article effectively presents both sides of the debate without pushing a single conclusion. Image 2