Ask HN: Why do some people feel emotionally attached to AI models

This feels strange to admit. I notice that sometimes I speak to AI systems like they are a friend. I know they are not real. I know there is no person on the other side. Still my brain acts like there is. I feel a small emotional connection. I see comments online saying this happens to others too.

I am trying to understand if this is a new psychological effect or if humans always did this with new technology. Maybe it is the same as talking to pets or giving names to cars. Or maybe it is something deeper.

Why do you think this happens. Is it loneliness. Is it empathy misfiring. Is it design tricks. Is it harmless or dangerous. I am curious how the HN crowd sees it.