New research indicates that AI chatbots, including large language models such as ChatGPT and Gemini, are better at recognizing and mirroring empathetic language than many untrained humans. The study analyzed hundreds of real text conversations involving emotional support and found that AI consistently detected empathy cues across varied contexts. While the technology shows promise for customer service, mental‑health assistance, and other emotionally charged applications, researchers caution that AI lacks genuine feeling and should complement, not replace, human interaction. Ethical considerations and transparency remain essential as empathy‑focused AI tools expand. Read more →