Stella: AI Dating Mobile App

Leveraging generative AI technology to combat male loneliness in Japan.

Status

Shipped

Duration

3 months

My Role

Primary UI/UX Designer

Team

Project Manager, Engineer

screenshots of the stella ai dating app

AI companion selection, AI companion profile, Messaging, Conversations list, Virtual gift giving

AI companion selection, AI companion profile, Messaging, Conversations list, Virtual gift giving

screenshots of the stella ai dating app

Background

Japan faces a significant loneliness epidemic, particularly among young adults. Many people struggle with social anxiety or have limited opportunities to practice romantic interactions in a low-pressure environment.

Problem Statement

How might we leverage generative AI to combat male loneliness in Japan?

Solution

screenshots of AI companion feed, AI companion profiles, AI companion details

AI companion selection, AI companion profiles, AI companion details

AI companion selection, AI companion profiles, AI companion details

screenshots of AI companion feed, AI companion profiles, AI companion details
  • Character Selection & Customization - Users can browse and select from a diverse roster of AI companions, each featuring distinct physical characteristics, personality traits, and conversational styles to match individual preferences.

screenshots of Messaging, Conversations list, Social feed

Messaging, Conversations list, Social feed

Messaging, Conversations list, Social feed

screenshots of Messaging, Conversations list, Social feed
  • Intelligent Conversation System - Dynamic messaging interface powered by AI that enables natural, contextual conversations that evolve based on user interactions and relationship progression.

  • Immersive Social Feed - Personalized social media-style timeline where AI companions share lifestyle content, photos, and updates, creating an authentic sense of their daily lives and personalities.

screenshots of Monthly subscription plan, Virtual gift giving, Affection level meter (4% in example)

Monthly subscription plan, Virtual gift giving, Affection level meter (4% in example)

Monthly subscription plan, Virtual gift giving, Affection level meter (4% in example)

screenshots of Monthly subscription plan, Virtual gift giving, Affection level meter (4% in example)
  • Tiered Subscription Model - Flexible monthly subscription plans that expand user capabilities, including increased message limits and additional "like" actions for connecting with new AI companions, encouraging platform exploration.

  • Virtual Gifting Economy - Integrated monetization through a curated selection of digital gifts and premium items that users can purchase to enhance their companion experience and express appreciation.

  • Relationship Progression Mechanics - Gamified affection system that tracks and visualizes relationship development through continued engagement, creating a sense of meaningful connection and achievement.

Results

User Acquisition

Achieved 1,500+ organic downloads within the initial launch period, demonstrating strong product-market fit and user demand in the target demographic.

Revenue Generation

Converted 500+ users to paid subscriptions, generating approximately ¥500,000 in monthly recurring revenue through strategic monetization design and user engagement optimization.

Media Recognition

Featured in Japan's PR Times press coverage, highlighting the product's innovation in the AI companion space and generating additional brand awareness in the Japanese market.