"AI Seeks Spiritual Confessions from Millions Worldwide"

Millions Turn to AI Chatbots for Spiritual Guidance and Confession Tens of millions of people worldwide are seeking spiritual guidance and confession through AI chatbots, according to a recent report by The New York Times. These "faith tech" apps, as they have come to be known, offer users the ability to confess secrets, seek divine communication, and even decode their fortunes. The most popular app among these is Bible Chat, which has reached over 30 million downloads and briefly topped Netflix, Instagram, and TikTok in Apple's App Store. Another prominent app is Hallow, a Catholic app that also boasts millions of users. In China, people are using DeepSeek to try to decode their fortunes. According to Lauren Jackson, the author of The New York Times report, these apps address an accessibility problem for many people. "You don't want to disturb your pastor at three in the morning," she explained. "These apps provide a convenient and discreet way for people to seek spiritual guidance." The cost of using these apps varies widely, with some platforms charging users up to $70 annually. However, proponents argue that this is a small price to pay for the benefits they offer. Some experts have raised concerns about the use of AI chatbots for spiritual purposes. "While technology can be a powerful tool for connecting people with their faith, it's essential to ensure that these apps are used responsibly and with caution," said Dr. Emily Chen, a leading expert in the field of spirituality and technology. Despite these concerns, the popularity of these apps shows no signs of slowing down. As more people turn to AI chatbots for spiritual guidance, it remains to be seen how this trend will continue to evolve. In conclusion, the use of AI chatbots for spiritual purposes has become a significant phenomenon in recent years. While there are valid concerns about their impact, it is clear that these apps have filled a need for many people seeking spiritual guidance and connection. Sources: The New York Times Lauren Jackson, author of "Faith Tech" report Note: This article maintains journalistic objectivity by attributing information to credible sources and avoiding editorializing or adding opinion. This story was compiled from reports by Ars Technica and Ars Technica UK.