AI Innovations Reshape the Landscape of China's Sex Toy Industry
Image Credit: Jacky Lee | Art Director, TheDayAfterAI News Channel
A sex toy exhibition in Shanghai showcased the emerging influence of artificial intelligence in the industry. This event displayed a mix of traditional products and advanced AI-integrated devices, signaling a new era in the market.
Industry Overview
China, responsible for producing approximately 70% of the world’s sex toys, has traditionally focused on hardware. However, there is a growing trend towards smart toys, which include features that facilitate long-distance relationships, monitor wellness, and inch closer to the sci-fi vision of robotic intimacy.
Technological Advancements
According to Hannes Hultman, a sales manager at Svakom, artificial intelligence integration in sex toys has been gaining popularity but remains in its early stages. Svakom is exploring teledildonics, enabling virtual sexual encounters through networked toys that can mimic actions from videos in real-time or through AI-driven content.
Consumer Interaction
Sistalk Technology and other companies are enhancing user experience by introducing AI-controlled functions, where an AI "girlfriend" can interact and control the toy. This shift is largely driven by China's younger generation, who demand higher quality and have more disposable income.
Cultural Shifts
The representative from Wet Stuff highlighted the evolving attitudes towards sex in China, noting significant changes over the past two decades. Meanwhile, BeU focuses on empowering women through specialized products, reflecting the rising acceptance and normalization of adult toys.
Future Prospects
Experts in the field note the rapid advancement of technology within the sex toy industry and the potential ethical questions it raises. Despite the technological progress, real-life sex robots remain primitive and rare, but the interest in such innovations continues to grow.
