Many of us cherish receiving handwritten letters. They take time and effort, unlike quickly sending a text message. Nowadays, however, some people are turning to AI tools like ChatGPT to craft heartfelt messages, whether for congratulations, condolences, or even casual chats.
Recently, a Reddit user shared a screenshot of a text message from their mom during a tough time in her life. The message was supportive: “I want you to know how proud I am of your strength and courage.” This phrase struck the user as unusual, and they questioned if their mom had used AI to generate it.
Commenters on that post pointed out that using AI is often about finding the right words when emotions are high. One user noted, “It’s the thought that counts.” This reflects a growing trend where people seek help from AI when they’re unsure how to express important feelings.
As AI usage rises, so does the challenge of identifying AI-generated text. A tool called GPTZero claimed a 97% likelihood that the user’s mom’s text was written by AI. These tools are becoming vital as chatbots improve, making it tougher to spot robotic responses.
Not everyone feels comfortable using AI for personal messages. In a different Reddit post, another user expressed guilt after using ChatGPT to respond to their aunt. The AI provided such a thoughtful reply that the aunt were brought to tears, yet the user felt uneasy about not writing it themselves.
The idea of AI stepping in for personal communication has gained attention. For instance, Google faced backlash last year for an ad depicting a mother using AI to write a fan letter for her child to send to an Olympic athlete. Critics argued that letting technology speak for children could lead to a loss of authenticity in personal connections.
So, how can you tell if a message is AI-generated? Look for a lack of personal tone and the absence of specific memories that hint at a human touch. AI text often feels overly polished and may include common AI quirks, like a heavy use of em dashes.
The rise of AI in communication calls for reflection. While AI can smooth over emotional hurdles, it’s essential to consider the depth of genuine interactions. A study by OpenAI revealed that about 26% of users feel more comfortable using AI tools for sensitive communications, but many still prefer the personal touch of human-written messages.
In the end, whether you’re texting a friend or a family member, the best communication may still come from the heart—no matter how you choose to express it.