AI Reunites a Grandmother with her Late Son, Virtually
Michèle, a 61-year-old retired police officer from Hœilaart, near Brussels, describes herself as a “true grandma.” Her days are filled with baking waffles, crocheting, and family gatherings. She also spends a considerable amount of time on Facebook.
Recently, the social network introduced Michèle (whose name has been changed to protect her privacy) to a community that left her “perplexed.” In a group dedicated to animating photos, she observed strangers posting personal pictures, requesting that they be transformed into videos using artificial intelligence (AI). More experienced members, skilled in using AI video software and crafting effective prompts (instructions given to the AI), shared their creations.
“Truly Amazed”
Michèle admits she isn’t an AI expert. She only uses “ChatGPT, and that’s it.” However, she had previously asked the OpenAI chatbot to retouch images, but found the results “not credible.” Nevertheless, she decided to take a leap of faith. One Sunday, she posted a request on the Facebook group.
“My grandson never met his father, who died in an accident while his partner was pregnant. Could you work a miracle and reunite them all three?” she wrote. She included a photo of Jayden, her grandson, and another of Tommy, Michèle’s son, who died in a motorcycle accident eleven years ago. The blue-eyed former firefighter was pictured holding Laura, Jayden’s mother.
The Power of AI in Grief
Michèle’s story highlights the growing trend of using AI to cope with grief and loss. While the technology is still in its early stages, it offers a unique way for people to connect with loved ones who have passed away. The ability to create virtual reunions, even if only through video, can provide comfort and a sense of closure.
However, it also raises ethical questions about the use of AI to manipulate images and create potentially misleading representations of reality. As AI technology continues to advance, it’s important to consider the potential impact on our emotions and perceptions of the world.
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