Maren Cole

Apps & comparisons editor

Maren tests every AI companion app on the internet so you don't have to. She keeps spreadsheets, holds grudges against paywalls, and believes romance should never be locked behind a subscription.

Articles by Maren

• The 7 Best Character.AI Alternatives for Romance (2026)The best Character.AI alternatives in 2026 for romance - slow burn, morally grey men, and chat that doesn't chicken out, compared honestly.
• The 6 Best AI Boyfriend Apps in 2026 (Tested & Compared)The best AI boyfriend apps in 2026, compared honestly - which ones do slow-burn romance, which paywall the relationship, and which are free. From someone who tested all of them.