Configuration, customization, and interactivity are pivotal benchmarks in modern technology. The ability to choose how we interact with our devices allows us to express our individuality over the things we own. Technological revolutions happen nearly every decade, if not faster than that. In 2006, no one owned a truly “smart phone.” At the beginning of 2014, cell phone technology is so ubiquitous that even the poorest in 1st world nations can have them. What will the next wave of world changing tech be? The rise of the Oculus Rift and its growing number of accessories suggest simulation. Around the world, more automated devices, drones, and robots take care of small household chores. They are taking an ever larger role in warfare. It is only a matter of time before they are taking care of our other needs.

What happens when the things we own aren’t simply inanimate rectangles with flashing lights? What will we do when the technology blurs the lines between the uncanny valley and we can purchase companions of our own choosing?

At the moment, this might seem like a far off fantasy, but the groundwork is already being laid. Sex dolls aren’t the blow up nylon monstrosities of hundreds of frat boy pranks. They are starting to look human. They are starting to move. They are starting to speak. As of this moment, it is all pre-recorded, but the simulation gets stronger every year.

The oculus rift can be paired with sex toys that can be used for either sex. The virtual reality device will project whatever is desired on the screen, immersing the user’s visual and auditory senses while the devices stimulate the rest. On top of that, they are now linked, so people on opposite ends of the planets can be joined in what is happening in the simulation.

It isn’t hard to see that the combination of these different methods of sexual gratification isn’t far off. Men and women will be able to purchase an android to take care of their household needs. Eventually, these robots will start taking over the emotional needs. It’s only natural what comes next. It will come to a point where many men and women will choose the company of a simulated human instead of dealing with the world of dating, heartbreak, and loss.

These automated, and perhaps autonomous, machines will be able to smash the Turing test, reach through the barriers of their own inhumanity, and become the lovers of and friends to many lonely people. It only makes sense. You purchase a machine that could be your custom designed perfect mate. Someone who won’t judge you based on any amount of absurd preferences, and is programmed to do your bidding. The machine will never turn you down. It will never be selfish. It will always remember to clean the house after you leave, and if told, never have eyes for anyone else. It could be the perfect lover.

Where will this put human interaction? If it is so easy to find the perfect person for you in an android, will humans simply stop seeking the attention of one another? Or are we so designed for chaos that the perfection of a robot will be too boring? What will it do to our normal idea of family? Will we watch the idea of robosexual marriage become a political topic? Or will it simply become another novelty device to be used and discarded? Tell us your opinion in the comments.