When Intimacy Gets a Price Tag — The True Trade of AI Companionship

This week’s First Movers Quickie has Yas exploring one of the most confronting trends shaping tech, identity, and emotional connection: AI intimacy. Following our conversation with global sextech expert Bryony Cole, we dive into what it means when AI stops being just a tool and starts becoming a partner — emotionally, romantically, even sexually. From digital boyfriends and virtual “heart links” to the growing number of teens forming deep bonds with chatbots, this episode asks: What’s the real impact of AI companions on our emotional health? Are we outsourcing vulnerability in favour of control and convenience? And who’s profiting from our desire to feel seen, supported, and soothed? Please have your say in our FM Confidence Study here. We explore the risks and rewards of this new frontier — and why First Movers need more than just digital skills to navigate it. We need digital fluency, ethical leadership, and a willingness to embrace friction, not just ease. We hope you enjoy this Quickie with Yas!