What are the pros and cons of a digital companion?

A digital companion that talks with you can keep you company, answer questions and remember what you've told it. On the other hand, it needs a phone, an internet connection and a little getting used to, and it doesn't replace people. An app that only sends notifications is simpler, but it can't answer you or ask how you're doing.

A digital companion can either talk with you or just send you notifications. Here are the pros and cons of each, and how each can fit into your everyday life.

What is a digital companion?

A digital companion is an app that either talks with you or sends you notifications. A talking companion like Elsy can give you a daily conversation, which can help keep your mind active and keep you company. You can tell her stories, ask questions and get reminders about important tasks or appointments, which can help give your days some structure. When you tell Elsy about your life, she writes the story up afterward with your own words as quotes.

Different kinds of digital companions

Some digital companions can hold a conversation, while others only send information or reminders as notifications. Which one suits you depends on what you prefer: do you want conversation and company, or would you rather have simple, practical reminders? See also the difference between a conversation partner and a reminder assistant.

Pros of a digital companion that talks

A talking digital companion like Elsy can give you both practical help and company. When the same companion reminds you about appointments and medicines and is also someone to talk to, it can be easier to stick to your routines. And it can feel good to have someone to talk to when you're home on your own. See how Elsy can be someone to talk to.

The US National Institute on Aging lists keeping your mind engaged and staying connected with family, friends and neighbors among the ways you may help support your cognitive health as you age.

Elsy doesn't prevent dementia. But she can give you a daily conversation.

How a talking AI can help day to day

Talking AI companions can adapt to you because they remember what you've told them, and that can make daily routines simpler. Because you can talk with them naturally, they can support your wellbeing and help you manage more of your day yourself.

Cons of a digital companion that talks

A talking digital companion has some downsides too. It can take some technical know-how, and you can come to rely on it so much that it crowds out time with other people. There are also privacy questions. Age UK advises being mindful of how you share your personal information, and never giving passwords, your bank account number or contact details to public AI tools.

With Elsy, conversations are recorded and stored securely so she can remember, and stored data is hosted in the EU. What you say is processed by AI services in the United States so Elsy can hear you, answer and remember. We never sell your information, and we don't use it to train general AI models. Here's more on whether it's safe to use an AI assistant.

Getting set up, and your privacy

Getting started with a talking AI like Elsy can feel like a hurdle, and you may have questions about the equipment you need and what happens to your information. Elsy needs an iPhone, an iPad, or an Android phone or tablet with an internet connection. What happens to your information is explained in our privacy policy.

Pros of a digital companion that only sends notifications

A companion that only sends notifications is an easier way into technology if you prefer simple features. Notifications can make day-to-day planning easier without asking much of you. That can be ideal if you want to stay organized without spending much time on technology.

Simple and quick

A companion that sticks to practical reminders can make your days feel simpler. It's a good fit if you want structure with as little technology as possible.

Cons of a digital companion that only sends notifications

The biggest drawback of a companion that only sends notifications is that there's no conversation. A reminder can't answer your questions, and it doesn't ask how you're doing.

What you miss without conversation

A notification does its job and disappears. Without a real conversation, there's less company to be had, and the app can't give you the same sense of connection.

How to get started

Download Elsy from the App Store or Google Play, open the app and tap Talk to Elsy. Then you can try both the conversations and the reminders for yourself. You can try Elsy free for 3 days on your own phone. Here's how Elsy works, step by step.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between a talking digital companion and one that only sends notifications?

A talking companion can hold a conversation and keep you company. One that only sends notifications sticks to reminders, with no conversation.

Can a digital companion replace human contact?

No. A digital companion can add to your contact with other people by offering company and support, but it can't replace time with them.

How can Elsy help me organize my day?

Elsy can help you keep track of appointments and medicines, and you can talk with her whenever you feel like it. She also writes down the stories of your life, so you can read them and send them to your family whenever you like.

This is general information, not medical advice. Every situation is different, so talk to a doctor about yours.