Move over, blow-up dolls, the sex robots have arrived.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is making its way into the global sex market, bringing with it a revolution in robotic “sextech” designed to offer sexual gratification with a near-human touch.
In a report on the growing market in sex robots, the Foundation for Responsible Robotics said rapidly advancing technologies had already led to the creation of “android love dolls” capable of performing 50 automated sexual positions.
They can be customised down to the nipple shape and pubic hair colour, and can cost between $5000 (R67 000) and $15000.
The increasingly lifelike robots raise complex issues that should be considered by policymakers and the public, the report said - including whether use of such devices should be encouraged in sex therapy clinics, for sex offenders, or for people with disabilities.
Noel Sharkey, a professor of AI and robotics at the University of Sheffield in England, said it was difficult to predict how far or fast the market would grow, or what its effect on societies might be in years ahead.
“Will these robotic dolls be niche? Or will they change societal norms and become widespread?” he asked at a news briefing. “How would (sex with a robot) equate to a truly human intimate relationship?”
The report looked at contentious issues, asking academics, members of the public and the sex industry their views on whether, for example, sex robots might be helpful in reducing sexual crimes.
It found “major disagreement” on this question, with some arguing that having sex with a robot would reduce attackers’ desires to harm fellow humans, and others arguing that allowing people to live out their darkest fantasies with robots would have a pernicious effect on societal norms.
On “meaningful” relationships, the report said that with current technology, no human-to-robot feelings would be mutual.
“Robots can't feel love.”