Tested: A Revolution in Your Pocket with Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

When people think about video games, first-person shooters or racing games like “Mario Kart” often come to mind where the objective is to defeat a strong enemy or acquire a particular grand prize. But there are other games in which the prize has nothing to do with shooting down monsters or reaching the finish line but rather focuses on winning a character’s affection.

Dating simulator games (a.k.a. dating sims) have been entertaining players and captivating audiences worldwide for years now. These games combine immersive storytelling with interactive gameplay that imitates romantic relationships. In other words, it’s a game where you "date" virtual characters (VC).

With the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), games have begun to change and these dating sims are at the forefront of this transformation. What began as simple text-based adventures has evolved into complex, AI-driven experiences that have enhanced character interactions, making them feel more dynamic and personalized.

In our latest explainer, we’re looking into how these games have evolved through the years and how AI is changing the game when it comes to the dating simulator genre.

From Linear Narratives to AI-Driven Experiences

It’s no surprise that traditional dating sims began in Japan in the 1980s where there was a focus on creating identifiable characters and narratives within games. If we take a look at the popular video game “Donkey Kong,” the goal has always been to “save the girl” and is implied that doing so automatically earns her affection.

This is basically what dating sims are all about. In their early years, they were heavily influenced by anime aesthetics and storytelling, featuring scripted narratives and simple graphics. “Tokimeki Memorial” (1994) is considered to be one of the pioneers of the genre and is a game where players build relationships with high school characters. Players would navigate romantic storylines by choosing dialogue options — “choices” — to influence the narrative’s direction similar to a “choose-your-own-adventure” game. The early games often had themes of slice-of-life scenarios, comedic misunderstandings, and school romances which appealed to a niche audience.

In the 2000s, we witnessed the rise of AI and virtual companions with chatbots and AI assistants like Microsoft’s Tay and Apple’s Siri, inspiring these games to take on a new, more interactive look.

“LovePlus” (2009), a game developed by Konami for the Nintendo DS console was the first to “remember” past interactions. Various technological advancements also elevated the gaming experience through enhanced graphics, voice acting, and more intricate storylines. These gameplay improvements made it more appealing to the global audience, increasing its popularity beyond Japan.

During this time, dating sim mechanics were also integrated into other genres like role-playing games (RPGs), which added emotional depth to gameplay. Customization was also introduced, which allowed players to tailor characters and explore different romantic paths, encouraging players to be more invested in the game and play them over and over again as the storyline expands.

Today, modern AI dating simulators are taking the lead with advancements in natural language processing (NLP) similar to OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Character AI, making dating sims more immersive. Now we have virtual companions that go beyond just gaming like AI-powered chatbots. Companies like Nekojishi, Voltage Inc., and Love and Deepspace have mastered the art of blending AI with dating sim mechanics to create more realistic virtual relationships coupled with impressive visual art and storytelling.

The Role of AI in Dating Sims

After a brief rundown of its evolution, it’s clear to see that AI has revolutionized the genre —and continues to do so, having introduced adaptive gameplay that creates authentic and responsive virtual relationships.

Back then, dating sims were limited to linear narratives with fixed dialogues and choice options, now AI has given players limitless conversation possibilities and has made interactions more personalized and genuine. Thanks to NLP, VCs can not only adapt to a player’s choices in the narrative but also their tone and preferences, thus creating an entirely unique experience for each individual. It can sometimes give you that eerie feeling that this character, whether they’re 2D or 3D, knows you. Well, they do. If you think about it, they’re retaining information from past conversations and customization settings, and then processing them to develop realistic responses and ones based on their own personalities. Reserved players may encounter more thoughtful and patient characters while outgoing ones may have virtual partners who are more adventurous or bold.

AI has also enhanced storylines to be more adaptive, branching out to more scenarios thus making the gameplay more exciting and worth investing in. This is especially popular in mobile dating sims which gives you the option to purchase “special stories” outside of the main narrative for a certain amount of coins or whatever rewards system the game has.

Visually, AI has made dating sims more attractive with virtual characters embodying more human-like features. Visuals can also be customized based on preferences from their physical attributes to their clothing and accessories. All of these key features combined enhance user experience, reaching a point of realism that was once unimaginable with traditional dating sims.

Benefits of AI-Powered Dating Sims

In a world where the world has become smaller with the rise of the World Wide Web and social media, recent studies have shown causal links between the use of social media and negative effects on one’s well-being.

“What we found overall is that if you use less social media, you are actually less depressed and less lonely, meaning that the decreased social media use is what causes that qualitative shift in your well-being,” said Jordyn Young, a co-author of the study.

We’re not saying that investing in AI dating simulators can altogether cure loneliness but it does offer benefits that improve one’s emotional and mental well-being.

While AI enhances interactions and provides more personalized matchmaking, it fosters a deeper emotional connection. Conversations are more engaging as VCs can respond appropriately while embodying a personality of their own. Although it’s customized to the user’s preferences, it’s exactly this reason that they feel more attracted to them, which makes it easier to feel attached. This personalized feature also ensures that every gameplay feels fresh and unique, mimicking how one would get to know someone in the real world.

Just take a look at Tapple, one of Japan’s largest for-human dating app developers, who just released an AI dating simulator game because they noticed that younger people are growing less active in pursuing romance and marriage — a common issue in many parts of the world today. While they’re not completely shutting down their service for meeting actual people, they’ve added “Koi Suru AI” to their service lineup in the hopes of igniting that spark for romance again, encouraging users to form even more realistic romantic connections with actual people.

Playing AI dating sims also develops empathy, and makes people more understanding and sensitive to other people’s feelings and opinions. Much like being exposed to art like literature and theater, AI dating simulators allow us to listen and access the experiences and emotions of other people whom we might never have the chance to encounter in our daily lives. AI-powered VCs are no longer just characters made with a strict list of features, they can now adapt and evolve throughout the time you spend with them.

This platform also offers a space for intellectual engagement where people can have meaningful discussions and allows diverse interactions, breaking down barriers in terms of culture and social status.

For game developers, on the other hand, AI provides opportunities for innovative storytelling. It gives them the chance to experiment with adaptive narratives and dynamic interactions, ultimately pushing the boundaries of traditional game design. AI also streamlines the process of creating complex narratives and character designs, which in turn allows developers to produce new games more efficiently.

The Future of AI in Dating Simulators

There’s a saying that it only gets better from here, and that couldn’t be more true here. As AI advances, we believe there’s a potential for dating sims to grow and adapt more immersive and interactive features.

Virtual Reality (VR) is at the forefront of this transformation, expected to make experiences more tangible as players begin to interact with VCs in three-dimensional spaces. The integration of AI also presents the potential of going beyond romance and exploring other types of relationships such as friendship and mentorship, which could broaden its target audience.

On top of this, AI is continuously evolving and adapting, so we can expect conversations and responses to remain engaging and fresh over time.

Popular AI Dating Simulators

Want to try your hand at these AI-powered dating sims? Here are some popular applications you can try today.

Replika

This AI companion app allows users to engage in text, voice, and augmented reality interactions. You can personalize your character's background, traits, and interests as they serve as your friend, therapist, or even a romantic partner.

Available on iOS and Android

Rizz

This app allows users to create interesting bios, analyze message exchanges, and offer feedback to enhance their dating profiles and conversations. Rizz reportedly has a large global user base of 7.5 million!

Available on iOS and Android

Blush

This app helps users practice relationship skills safely and in an engaging environment. Similar to most AI-driven dating sims, you can customize with unique backstories and personalities, and explore various dynamics of relationships to improve your VCs communication skills.

Available on iOS and Android

Nomi

This AI-powered companion app is designed to foster deep and meaningful relationships, deeming itself as the “AI Companion with a Soul.” It offers voice chats, real-time selfies, and art generations. Nomi remembers user preferences and personal details, boasting a human-like memory that makes conversations more in tune and authentic, and the overall experience more immersive.

Available on iOS and Android

As a small business owner, your days are filled with juggling multiple tasks: managing operations, satisfying customers, and growing your company. This leaves you with little to no time putting cybersecurity on top of your to-do list. But neglecting it could cost you far more than you realize. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting small businesses, knowing that limited resources and time often leave them vulnerable.

The good news? Securing your business doesn’t have to be overwhelming or time-consuming. With a few straightforward steps, you can significantly improve your defenses and protect your business from cyber threats. Here’s a simple guide to cybersecurity for busy small business owners, plus a quick readiness quiz to help you get started.

Why Cybersecurity Matters for Small Businesses

If you think cyberattacks only happen to big corporations, think again. Nearly 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses, and many fall victim because they believe they’re too small to be noticed.

The reality is that every business — no matter its size — handles valuable data, from customer payment information to sensitive company records. A single cyberattack can lead to financial losses, downtime, reputational damage, and even legal consequences. The stakes are high, but by taking simple precautions, you can greatly reduce your risk.

Simple Cybersecurity Steps for Busy Small Business Owners

Here are some straightforward ways to strengthen the cybersecurity of your business, even with your packed schedule:

1. Use Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Weak passwords are one of the easiest ways for cybercriminals to gain access to your systems. Make sure all accounts, from e-mail to financial software, use strong and unique passwords.

Use a strong password that combines uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. You should also implement MFA wherever possible to add a second layer of security, such as a text message code or authentication app.

Why it matters: Even if a hacker guesses or steals your password, MFA can stop them from accessing your accounts.

2. Back Up Your Data Regularly

Data loss can happen due to ransomware, hardware failure, or accidental deletion. Regular backups ensure you can recover quickly without paying ransoms or losing critical information. Use automated backup solutions to save time and store backups in a secure, off-site location, such as a cloud service or external drive.

Why it matters: Backups give you peace of mind and minimize downtime in case of an incident.

3. Train Your Team to Spot Threats

Your employees are your first line of defense. Unfortunately, they’re also one of the most common entry points for cyberattacks due to phishing scams or accidental mishandling of data. To avoid this, educate your team on recognizing suspicious emails, links, and attachments. Encourage them to report potential threats immediately without fear of blame.

Why it matters: A trained team can stop an attack before it starts.

4. Keep Software and Devices Updated

Outdated software and devices are vulnerable to attacks because they lack the latest security patches. Cybercriminals actively exploit these weaknesses to gain access to systems. It's best to set all your software to update automatically wherever possible. Replace unsupported devices or operating systems, such as Windows 7, which no longer receive security updates.

Why it matters: Staying up-to-date closes vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.

5. Secure Your Wi-Fi and Networks

An unsecured Wi-Fi network is an open invitation for hackers to access your systems and data. Use a strong password for your Wi-Fi and update it regularly, and enable encryption, such as WPA3, to protect data transmitted over the network. You should also let your employees use a virtual private network (VPN) when they're working remotely.

Why it matters: Secure networks keep outsiders from eavesdropping on sensitive business communications.

6. Create a Cybersecurity Policy

Even a simple policy can help your team follow best practices and avoid costly mistakes. Outline key rules, such as what employees should do if they suspect a phishing email, how they can handle sensitive data securely, and when to update passwords or install patches.

Why it matters: Clear guidelines ensure that everyone in your business is on the same page.

Take the First Step: Assess Your Readiness

Feeling overwhelmed? You don't have to. This is where a cybersecurity readiness quiz comes in. It’s specifically designed for small business owners who need a quick, non-technical way to evaluate their security practices.

In just a few minutes, you can identify areas where your business might be vulnerable, learn which cybersecurity practices you’re doing well, and get actionable recommendations to improve your defenses. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses is the first step toward protecting your business after all.

Still not convinced? Let’s bust a few common myths about small business cybersecurity:

• Myth 1: "I’m too small to be targeted."
• Fact: Cybercriminals often see small businesses as easier targets with weaker defenses.
• Myth 2: "Cybersecurity is too expensive."
• Fact: Many effective measures, like MFA and backups, are low-cost or even free.
• Myth 3: "I don’t have time for cybersecurity."
• Fact: With automated tools and a few simple steps, you can secure your business without significant time investment.

Protecting Your Business Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

Cybersecurity might sound complex, but with a little effort, you can make a big impact. Start with the basics: strong passwords, regular backups, team training, and keeping your software up to date. These simple actions can protect your business from the majority of common threats.

Lastly, start by assessing where you stand with a free cybersecurity readiness quiz. It’s fast, easy, and could be the most important thing you can do for your business.

Take the quiz now and start building a stronger, safer business!

Cryptocurrency has become a popular topic in finance, transforming how people approach banking and investing. At its core, cryptocurrency is essentially a form of digital money that uses cryptography to ensure its security, making it hard to fake or alter.

Unlike traditional money, cryptocurrencies are not controlled by governments or banks, which provides users with more privacy, security, and the potential for significant financial gains, making them an attractive option for many.

So how does blockchain technology play a key role in cryptocurrency?

• Blockchain operates as a distributed ledger, recording all transactions across a network of computers.
• Transactions are transparent, secure, and unchangeable once added to the ledger.
• The system enables peer-to-peer transactions without the need for a centralized intermediary, such as a bank or payment service provider.
• This decentralized approach makes cryptocurrency an appealing alternative to traditional financial systems.

Let’s take a closer look at three popular cryptocurrency companies shaping the future of this dynamic industry.

Bitcoin: The Pioneer of Cryptocurrency

Bitcoin, the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, was created in 2008 by an anonymous figure using the name Satoshi Nakamoto. It introduced the idea of decentralized digital currency, enabling peer-to-peer transactions without requiring intermediaries such as banks. Bitcoin’s blockchain technology ensures secure and transparent transactions, and its fixed supply of 21 million coins creates scarcity, contributing to its value.

Bitcoin is widely considered a store of value, often compared to gold, and has been embraced as a hedge against inflation by many investors.

Its journey has been marked by significant price volatility, but it has grown into a mainstream financial asset with broad adoption. It has spurred the development of thousands of other cryptocurrencies and remains a symbol of the potential of digital finance.

Despite its volatility, Bitcoin continues to dominate the cryptocurrency market, maintaining its position as the most valuable and influential digital asset. As of writing, the value of one Bitcoin (BTC) is over US$95,000.

Solana: Fast, Scalable, and Efficient

Solana, launched in 2020, is a fast and scalable blockchain network designed to overcome the limitations of earlier cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Using its unique Proof of History (PoH) consensus mechanism, Solana can process thousands of transactions per second, making it one of the fastest networks in the crypto space. This allows for low transaction fees and high scalability, attracting developers and users looking for efficiency in decentralized applications (dApps) and decentralized finance (DeFi).

Solana’s network supports smart contracts, NFTs, and other blockchain applications, positioning it as a key player in the next generation of blockchain technology. With growing adoption and a strong developer ecosystem, Solana is quickly becoming a major competitor to Ethereum, offering a faster and more affordable alternative for decentralized applications.

Its focus on scalability and speed makes it a promising platform for the future of fintech and blockchain innovation. As of writing, one Solana (SOL) is worth almost US$200.

Dogecoin: From Meme to Market Value

Originally created in 2013 as a parody, Dogecoin has evolved from a meme-inspired cryptocurrency to one of the most widely recognized and actively traded coins. The Shiba Inu dog from the viral “Doge” meme serves as its logo, and Dogecoin’s lighthearted, fun nature has earned it a loyal and enthusiastic community.

Unlike Bitcoin, Dogecoin has no maximum supply, which contributes to its affordability and accessibility, allowing people to engage with crypto without significant financial barriers.

Dogecoin’s popularity was significantly boosted by high-profile endorsements, particularly from Elon Musk, who frequently tweets about the coin. Despite lacking a clear use case compared to other cryptocurrencies, Dogecoin remains a popular option for tipping and small transactions.

Dogecoin has earned its spot in the crypto world through a loyal community and growing recognition, showing that even meme coins can hold genuine value. As of writing, one Dogecoin (DOGE) is around US$0.35 cents.

Ethereum: The Backbone of Smart Contracts

Ethereum, launched in 2015, revolutionized the cryptocurrency landscape by introducing the concept of smart contracts — self-executing agreements with terms directly written into code. This innovation has enabled the creation of decentralized applications (dApps) and fostered the explosive growth of decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Ethereum's blockchain operates on a Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism, which enhances energy efficiency and scalability.

As the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, Ethereum is a foundational platform for blockchain innovation and continues to lead the charge in enabling programmable digital transactions. As of writing, one Ethereum (ETH) is worth over US$3,300.

TRON: Optimized for Content Sharing

Founded in 2017 by Justin Sun, TRON is a blockchain platform designed to decentralize content sharing and digital entertainment. Known for its fast transaction speeds and zero fees, TRON enables developers to build smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps) efficiently. Its primary goal is to empower creators by allowing them to share content directly with consumers, bypassing traditional intermediaries.

With a focus on reshaping the digital media landscape, TRON continues to gain traction as a hub for decentralized entertainment and innovation. As of writing, one TRON (TRX) is around US$0.25 cents.

Are you planning to trade or invest in cryptocurrency? Stay updated with the latest rates here.

In an era where cyber threats like malware, phishing, and ransomware are constantly evolving, protecting your devices with reliable antivirus software is more crucial than ever. With options ranging from free, no-frills solutions to premium all-in-one suites, finding the right antivirus for your household’s needs can feel overwhelming. Let’s simplify things by looking at some of the best free and paid antivirus options available today. Check them out!

Avast One Essential (Free)

Avast One Essential is a free antivirus packed with features that rival some paid solutions. It offers real-time protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing threats, ensuring your devices are safe from common cyberattacks. The inclusion of a secure VPN is a standout feature, allowing you to browse safely on public Wi-Fi by encrypting your internet connection.

Avast also provides data breach monitoring, alerting you if your personal information is compromised. Additionally, system cleanup tools help optimize performance by clearing junk files. Its user-friendly interface ensures that even those with minimal tech knowledge can navigate the software easily. While advanced features like full VPN access are part of Avast’s paid plans, the free version offers excellent value for robust, everyday security.

AVG AntiVirus Free (Free)

AVG AntiVirus Free is a trusted and efficient antivirus solution offering solid protection against malware, spyware, and phishing attacks. It provides real-time security updates, scans emails for potential threats, and blocks unsafe downloads and suspicious links. The software’s smart scanning system ensures threats are identified without significantly impacting system performance.

AVG is known for its simplicity, featuring an intuitive interface that appeals to both novice and experienced users. Although it lacks advanced tools like a VPN or system optimization, AVG excels in delivering reliable, no-cost security for everyday use, making it a strong contender for those seeking basic protection.

Microsoft Defender Antivirus (Free)

Built directly into Windows 10 and 11, Microsoft Defender Antivirus provides reliable and consistent protection without the need for additional installations. It shields against malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks while offering features like a built-in firewall and parental controls. Its integration with the Windows ecosystem ensures seamless updates and minimal impact on system performance.

While Microsoft Defender is excellent for basic protection, it lacks advanced tools such as VPNs or password managers found in premium software. Its straightforward interface and ease of use make it an ideal choice for non-technical users or those seeking hassle-free security. For more comprehensive protection, pairing Defender with another antivirus solution may be beneficial.

Bitdefender Total Security (Paid)

Bitdefender Total Security is a premium antivirus suite that delivers top-notch protection across multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It uses machine learning to detect and neutralize threats in real-time, making it highly effective against both known and emerging malware. Its multi-layer ransomware protection safeguards sensitive files, while parental controls allow you to monitor and manage your children’s online activities. The suite also includes system optimization tools to improve device performance, making it particularly useful for older devices.

Additional features like a secure VPN, anti-theft tools, and webcam/microphone protection make it an all-in-one solution for personal and family use. Its intuitive interface and low system impact add to its appeal, ensuring both security and convenience.

Norton 360 Deluxe (Paid)

Norton 360 Deluxe is a robust antivirus solution designed for comprehensive protection. It provides real-time defense against malware, ransomware, and phishing, along with premium features like a secure VPN for private browsing and dark web monitoring to alert you if your personal information is exposed.

One of its standout features is the inclusion of a 50GB cloud storage for secure backups, which adds an extra layer of protection against data loss. The suite also includes parental control tools, making it an excellent choice for families who want to monitor and manage their children’s online activities. With support for up to five devices across platforms and consistent high performance in independent lab tests, Norton 360 Deluxe is a reliable choice for those seeking extensive cybersecurity.

McAfee Total Protection (Paid)

McAfee Total Protection is a versatile antivirus suite that goes beyond basic security. It provides protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks, while advanced features like identity theft protection and a secure VPN enhance your online privacy. The software covers up to 10 devices, making it ideal for families or households with multiple devices.

McAfee’s password manager securely stores credentials, and its file encryption feature adds another layer of safety for sensitive information. Anti-phishing tools and web protection actively block malicious websites, improving overall online safety. With its user-friendly interface and minimal system impact, McAfee Total Protection offers a dependable and comprehensive solution for safeguarding your digital life.

No matter your budget or requirements, there’s an antivirus solution out there to keep you and your devices safe. Prioritize your digital security today!