Core Insights - The article discusses the emergence of AI companionship applications, highlighting the significant investment and interest in this sector, particularly in the context of user engagement and emotional connection [4][6]. - The founder of "Infinite Valley," Cai Mao, aims to create a product that transcends traditional chatbot functionalities, focusing on enhancing users' lives through personalized AI companionship [7][9]. Company Overview - "Infinite Valley" was founded by Cai Mao after her departure from Bilibili, securing over $10 million in funding from investors like ZhenFund and IDG Capital, with a current valuation nearing $70 million [6]. - The team consists of over 50 members, primarily from the previous "Cat Ear FM" team, ensuring a strong foundation for product development [6][31]. Product Features - The product allows users to interact with a virtual male character named "Lu," focusing on building intimate relationships while also offering practical features like schedule management and habit formation [6][7]. - Cai Mao emphasizes that "Infinite Valley" is not a game but an app designed to integrate into users' lives, providing proactive services based on user data [7][15]. Market Positioning - Cai Mao differentiates "Infinite Valley" from existing AI companionship products by focusing on personalized, proactive interactions rather than passive chatbot responses [14][15]. - The product aims to occupy a unique market position by combining high-quality content with user-driven experiences, targeting a demographic of women aged 15 to 50 [35][36]. User Engagement - Initial testing data shows a retention rate of over 80%, with users averaging 160 chat interactions and over 60 minutes of usage on the first day [9]. - The design philosophy centers on creating a visual and emotional connection with users, which is particularly appealing to female audiences [17][18]. Business Model - The monetization strategy involves content-based payments and IP development, similar to models used in gaming and audio platforms, rather than relying on superficial paywalls [26][27]. - The goal is to create a platform that evolves with user preferences, allowing for a unique blend of public IP and personalized experiences [28][29]. Future Outlook - Cai Mao believes that the AI companionship sector represents a significant opportunity, with the potential for long-term user engagement and emotional support [33][34]. - The company aims to establish a strong brand presence and user loyalty by leveraging its unique approach to AI interactions and community building [21][22].

蔡懋不是当下市场上常见的AI创业新兵。她早年供职于红杉中国，尔后联合创立女性向音频社区"猫 耳FM"，并出任COO；2018年，已成为全国最大广播剧平台的猫耳FM被B站全资收购后，她还负责 过包括游戏工作室在内的游戏业务。在猫耳FM期间，蔡懋创立并运营Laser、Manta虚拟偶像男团， 全网累计粉丝数超680万，周边年销售总流水超1亿。目前，无限谷团队已有50余人规模，主要为原 猫耳FM团队和游戏《古剑奇谭3》的3D团队，与蔡懋有长期合作的基础。 今年12月10日，无限谷开启iOS限量删档测试。产品主打AI陪伴，用户可与白发蓝眸的虚拟男性角 色"Lu"进行日常互动，积累亲密关系，同时还能实现行程管理、习惯养成与实时对话功能。 尽管用户与"Lu"有着清晰的从朋友到恋人推进的主线设定，但蔡懋告诉「暗涌Waves」，无限谷不 是一款乙女游戏，也不是拥有人设的聊天机器人。 「 不仅是AI男友。 」 文 ｜ 陈之琰 过去两年，AI陪伴被视为最具潜力的AI to C应用之一。从海外的Character.ai到国内的星野、 Glow，资本在这个领域倾注了大量热情。 然而，围绕于此争议从未停止。看多者认为，那是类似电影《H ...