The Break-Up Bot: Why Using AI Tools This Valentine’s Day Is a One-Way Ticket to Singlehood.
Brits give AI the cold shoulder this Valentine's Day as genuine romance saves the day.
- 91% of Brits said they would avoid using AI to suggest romantic plans
- 87% of Brits would avoid using AI to assist in marriage proposals
- 77% of Brits are unlikely to use an AI tool to find a gift for a loved one.
- 41% of Brits say they would reconsider a relationship if a partner did use AI to make romantic plans.
New research from MyVoucherCodes suggests that while Artificial Intelligence can master complex algorithms, it can't master love. The study indicates that the cold efficiency of a chatbot is no match for genuine human effort, with almost half of the nation viewing AI-assisted romance as a clinical shortcut rather than a thoughtful gesture.
Not only would 41%* of Brits think twice about a relationship with an
AI-dependent partner, but it seems they aren’t impressed with AI helping out with gifts either.
77%* of those surveyed won’t be swayed by the convenience that AI tools can bring when shopping, either. It seems that searching for the perfect gift is something that must come from the heart, not a bot.
The same applies to making romantic plans. 87% of Brits will provide the personal touch and plan a wedding proposal themselves. And 75% still enjoy making date night plans without the help of AI.
Sarah-Jane Outten at MyVoucherCodes said,
“Despite the growing use of AI tools in everyday life, they are no match for genuine effort this Valentine's Day."
Sarah-Jane Outten
Sarah-Jane went on to say "Now more than ever, it’s a human connection that people crave the most. Knowing that someone has taken the time and effort to buy a gift or make romantic plans is a pledge of true love. It’s pleasing to see that the number of people actually using AI this Valentine’s Day remains relatively low. However, artificial intelligence is moving fast, so what will the numbers look like next year? The study shows that Brits take love very seriously, and replacing it with a chatbot is a potential red flag for many”
Sarah-Jane suggests the following if you are looking for inspiration this Valentine’s Day:
- Write a love letter. Those on a budget shouldn’t get distracted by the sea of red hearts that flood the shops every year. Why not write a love letter or include some heartfelt words in a homemade card? Just don’t ask AI to write it for you!
- Cook a meal or bake a cake. Nothing says ‘I love you’ more than an act of service. Avoid the typical Valentine’s Day set menu at a restaurant and cook your partner their favourite meal or cake. It’s far more romantic than sharing Valentine’s Day with a room full of strangers all eating from the same menu.
- Give the gift of time. Spending time with your partner can be tricky when life is hectic. Pop some time on the calendar to focus on your loved one. Whether that means a weekend away or a coffee date, it’s a precious time when you can make someone feel special.
- Make a promise. Fill a jar with promises. These can be anything from a massage to cleaning your partner's car. The recipient can choose one promise a week or a month; you can keep the romance going all year.
Notes to Editors *All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. The total sample size was 2235 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 15th and 16th January 2026. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+). About MyVoucherCodes: MyVoucherCodes is a market-leading voucher, coupon and discount deals website based in the UK. It has around 5 million consumer members who receive daily emails featuring the best selection of deals, vouchers and offers from fashion, beauty, restaurants and electrical retailers, as well as many more retailers. It works with more than 2,500 retailers to offer more than 25,000 voucher or discount codes. MyVoucherCodes is operated by Future Publishing Limited.

Hi, I’m SJ. I’m the Beauty Editor and PR Executive here at MyVoucherCodes. As a qualified make-up artist, I've been able to share my knowledge on all things beauty and skincare with our readers so they not only look good and feel great, but save money. As a mum of three, I understand the challenges that families face, and making budgets go further is something I feel passionately about. My research and recommendations help families of all sizes shop better allowing them to enjoy the little luxuries in life. My work has been featured in many publications including The Sun, The Mirror, Netmums, and The Telegraph.