Artificial intelligence meets real friendship: College students are bonding with robots

The text message from Billy arrived on students' phones the week of final exams. "It took a lot of hard work, perseverance, and strength to get here, but you've finally made it to the other side -- the end of the semester! I wanted to take a minute and say that I am so proud of you ..." Three emoji hearts concluded the message. "Love you Billy thank you." Heart heart heart. "Thanks Billy, we did it together."