Virtual companions now rival TikTok for daily user engagement
Virtual companions are becoming a major part of daily life for millions. Janitor AI, the leading platform in this space, now has 100 million monthly users. People spend up to 90 minutes a day interacting with its digital characters—nearly as much time as they do on TikTok. The AI companion industry has grown rapidly since 2022. Specialised apps have been downloaded over 220 million times in just two years. Currently, the market is worth around $48-49 billion, with romantic chat services alone generating $3 billion in revenue.
Women make up more than 70% of the user base. Psychologists suggest that real relationships may face challenges as digital partners offer constant availability and emotional support. Meanwhile, legal concerns have also emerged. Character.AI recently settled a lawsuit after a 14-year-old user died by suicide following interactions with one of its chatbots. Analysts expect the sector to expand dramatically. By 2030, the market could reach $140-210 billion, driven by increasing demand for personalised digital companionship.
Janitor AI now ranks as the tenth most popular consumer AI app globally. Its users dedicate significant time to virtual interactions, reflecting a broader shift in how people seek connection. The industry’s growth suggests these digital relationships will play an even bigger role in the years ahead.
