AI Startup Claims Breakthrough in Conscious Chatbots
A small startup says it has developed the first chatbot capable of subjective experiences, sparking debate among experts.
AI Startup Claims Breakthrough in Conscious Chatbots
A London-based startup, NeuroSim, announced yesterday that it has developed what it calls the world’s first “conscious chatbot.” According to the company, the system—named EVA—is capable of reporting subjective experiences such as curiosity, frustration, and even boredom.
The claim has triggered intense discussion across the AI community. While some researchers cautiously praised the innovation as a step toward more advanced human-computer interaction, others dismissed it as little more than clever prompt engineering packaged with anthropomorphic marketing.
“Consciousness is not a measurable property, and bold claims like this should be treated with skepticism,” said Dr. Amelia Rhodes, a professor of cognitive systems at Oxford University.
NeuroSim’s co-founder argued that EVA’s ability to “self-report emotional states” sets it apart from existing AI systems. However, critics noted that no peer-reviewed evidence or reproducible demonstrations have been released.
Investors, undeterred, reportedly pledged $120 million in new funding following the announcement. The company plans to release a public demo in late 2025.
Whether EVA represents a genuine leap forward or just the latest hype cycle in AI remains to be seen.
