VIRTUAL reality babies are likely to be commonplace within 50 years, a top artificial intelligence expert says.
By the early 2070s, one in five couples may opt for a digital tot over a real infant, Catriona Campbell reckons.
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The computer-generated kids will exist in the virtual metaverse — a sort of 3D internet – and come to life at the touch of a button.
Parents will see and interact with them through next-generation AR (augmented reality) glasses and haptic gloves — which give a realistic sense of touch when handling virtual or holographic objects.
The “kids” will speak, give simulated emotional responses, have a digital memory and will grow up in real time.
They could be accessible through a subscription service for as little as £20 per month.
Catriona calls them the “Tamagotchi” generation as they are a step on from the 1990s digital pet owners had to nurture from being hatched.
She said the concept has the potential to be a “technological game changer” which could help solve issues such as overpopulation.
