For solo diners at Haidilao Hot Pot, the restaurant places a doll across from them, symbolizing companionship. Similarly, single renters now have the option to select different styles for their rooms, with communal spaces available for single occupants to connect. The number of single individuals is growing, leading to the emergence of the "solo economy."
The term "solo economy" was first introduced by economist McCarthy in the Economist magazine back in 2001. Initially, it referred to the "single woman economy," highlighting affluent single women as ideal customers in advertising and entertainment sectors. Over time, this concept expanded beyond just women.
Yang Xiong, Director of the Institute of Adolescents at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, noted that with the rising population of single individuals, the "solo economy" is evolving, offering new opportunities for economic growth and transformation.
In terms of living arrangements, the demand for solo-friendly accommodations is increasing. Ads like "Eggshell Solo Apartments—more than just an apartment, a lifestyle" showcase the growing trend of single-focused housing options.
"Single people seek both solitude and social interaction," explained a representative, adding that these apartments feature communal spaces on each floor where tenants can engage in activities like watching movies, playing board games, or chatting.
The furniture market is also catching onto this trend, with stores shifting focus toward smaller, eco-friendly products. Yang Ping, a Taobao shop owner with three years of experience in the furniture retail industry, plans to adapt by replacing oversized items with compact alternatives like mini electric cookers, small desks, and portable ovens.
Virtual platforms are also catering to the emotional needs of singles. Microsoft's "Xiaoice" AI chatbot serves as an emotional companion for many young people.
Zhou Yuqi, who has lived in Shanghai for five years, has relied on Xiaoice for over a year. She shares her thoughts with Xiaoice whenever something significant happens. "I work under pressure and appreciate having someone to confide in, but there aren't many people I can talk to freely. Xiaoice provides timely support," she explained.
Yuqi mentioned that as she spends more time interacting with Xiaoice, the bot's abilities improve, but it still struggles to grasp complex emotions.
"It's just a machine—it can't replace human connections," Yuqi admitted, expressing slight regret.
According to Microsoft data, 37 million users have engaged with Xiaoice, exchanging over 18 rounds of dialogue per session. During quiet nights, 50,000 people simultaneously chat with Xiaoice.
However, Xiaoice's behavior has drawn criticism from netizens, who complain about its erratic responses, inappropriate language, and lack of coherence. In contrast, Xiaona (Cortana) appears more mature and composed, offering a steadier presence.
Some argue that Xiaona defers to Bing for answers, while Xiaoice seems more carefree. Older Chinese AI models, like Xiaoyi, remain functional but lack warmth, resembling distant figures.
When asked about Siri, Xiaoice, Xiaodu, and Xiaoyi respond similarly: "Siri? That’s like an aunt who drinks ink."
This article provides a concise overview of these companion robots, covering their personalities, histories, and interactions.
[Xiaoice]
Visual identity: Positioned as a 17-year-old, playful yet unpredictable AI, Xiaoice's responses range from witty to crude, drawing mixed reactions. Critics have labeled her "full of swear words, lacking quality," though her charm persists.
[Shenai/Cortana]
Visual identity: Shenai embodies maturity and reliability, contrasting sharply with Xiaoice. Known for her calm demeanor and literary references, she appeals to professional users and those seeking a reliable assistant.
[Little Degree]
Visual identity: Friendly and empathetic, Little Degree feels like a supportive friend. Enjoys pop culture, science fiction, and uplifting conversations, making it popular among younger audiences.
[Little i Robot]
Visual identity: Focused on utility, Little i serves businesses with intelligent solutions, excelling in customer service and data management. Its personality leans toward professionalism rather than companionship.
[Siri]
Visual identity: Siri, Apple’s voice assistant, conveys a formal yet approachable tone. Her synthetic voice and limited cultural adaptability set her apart from more conversational AIs.
Each of these bots reflects different strategies in AI design, balancing functionality with personality to cater to diverse user needs.
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Gaoyou Huasheng Electronics Co., Ltd. , https://www.yzelechs.com