The use of AI chatbots is becoming increasingly popular in Switzerland, particularly among young adults. Although chatbots are primarily used as tools, some people see them as more than just assistants or simple helpers. It seems that AI models are increasingly being used as buddies, even when they were not primarily designed to build a personal relationship. At the same time, more and more so-called companion bots are coming onto the market. They belong to a growing family of social bots that can respond to human text or voice inputs so convincingly that some people (almost) forget they are not interacting with a real person. These AI companions specialise in personal support and (long-term) emotional bonds with their users, which sets them apart from other conversational agents such as customer service bots. AI companions are at home in our smartphones, tablets and computers or separate devices, and are therefore ubiquitous. The study focuses on the central question of how AI companions are changing interpersonal relationships and what it means in today’s digital age to enter into, maintain or even end a relationship – whether with another human being or with an AI.