'World's First' Digital Human AI Partner Promises Companionship During Coronavirus Era

Realic plan to release the Hybri digital AI partner app next year. A new app is offering the "world's first" AI-based human partner, after having been unveiled by Florida-based augmented reality company Realic. Using a combination of artificial intelligence, VR and AR, Hybri offers customizable smartphone-based virtual partners that respond to the user's personality and learn from interactions. It's due to be launched next year, and promises to provide individuals with companionship during the loneliness of coronavirus self-isolation. Planned before the coronavirus pandemic erupted, the Hybri app lets users create a partner, friend or family member. Once created, the digital partner or friend comes to life using either VR or AR, with users able to interact with them through either a smartphone alone, or through a compatible VR/AR headset.