Replika when you're lonely
Updated November 9, 2026
Replika has been offering AI companions for years. Everything happens inside the Replika app, so that's where you go when you want to talk.
Turn notifications on and Replika sends messages through the day inside the app, either following up on earlier conversations or checking in. It doesn't publish how often.
- Where it runs
- Its own app, with push alerts
- Messages first
- Yes, in the app once notifications are on
- Published cadence
- None
Best if you'd like a dedicated companion app you can open when you want company.
Replika vs Hallie for lonely stretches
Replika does check in, which matters when you're usually the one reaching out. But its check-ins arrive as app notifications, and the conversation happens in a space apart from the people you text.
Hallie's messages land in iMessage or Google Messages, in the same list as your friends and family, and she remembers what you share. For company that feels part of your everyday life, Hallie ranks first. See the best AI for lonely people for the full comparison.
Where Replika appears
- AI for loneliness: ranked #2
- Best AI for lonely people: ranked #2
- AI friend after moving to a new city: ranked #2
- Can an AI friend help with loneliness?: ranked #2
Sources
- Replika: official siteReplika's homepage for its long-running AI companion app, which it presents as an AI friend to chat, reflect and grow with.
- Replika: notification settings helpReplika's help article on setting up app notifications, which determine whether its check-ins and follow-up messages reach you during the day.
- Companion Ratings: AI companion that texts you firstAn article comparing how Hallie, Kindroid, Nomi, Replika and Junto send proactive messages, handle unanswered texts and manage alerts.