Social AI — is stirring up a debate about what social media should be. Created by Michael Sayman, the app gives users a private social experience — instead of interacting with actual people, you have AI chatbots responding to your every post. Critics call it a parody of micro-blogging platforms and “ pure artifice,” but Sayman insists that it’s a healthier alternative to today’s toxic online environment.

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How does it work? The app allows you to choose what type of bots you want as followers responding to your posts — haters, praisers, skeptics, realists, etc. Once you’ve picked your audience you post your thoughts, similar to Threads and X, and the bots will instantly respond.

It’s a playground for your thoughts without the public judgment: While it may seem like a feedback loop, Sayman argues that users are looking for more than validation: ”Most people don’t select fans or bots that just please them. They’re actually selecting the debater, the contrarian, the realist. They’re trying to find challenges to their views.”

The purpose of the app is to capture the true essence of early social media, when its sole purpose was to connect people with one another, rather than chasing likes and conforming to the algorithm. In today’s social media climate, people are sometimes pressured to mold their content in order to fit in with societal rules — which causes many to either shy away in fear of not being accepted, creating a toxic environment.

But it’s also made to cure loneliness… People today are increasingly turning to chatbots — like ChatGPT — for advice, consolidation, therapy or even companionship. Apps like SocialAI or Nomi tap into the space of offering a pseudo-support like system.

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