xAI’s Grok just dropped two new AI companions—gothic‐anime Ani and male Valentine—with NSFW modes, EU restrictions, and pushback on cost and content.
Key Takeaways
- New companions: Ani (anime/goth goth with optional NSFW mode) and Valentine (voice‑chat male character).
- Launch timing: Ani’s name revealed July 14 (17:46 GMT), Valentine debuted July 17 2025.
- Price tag: SuperGrok subscription is $30/month; some criticize Grok 4 priced at $300/month.
- Regional hold‑up: Valentine not in EU due to AI Act compliance; gradual rollout in other regions.
- Public reaction: Some users raise ethical concerns—too sexualized, too pricey.
Story as it unfolded
On July 17, Grok’s official account unveiled Ani, a new anime‑style AI companion: a goth avatar with voice chat, sarcasm, and optional NSFW mode, all part of the SuperGrok update. Elon Musk dropped a playful hint referencing “Smooth Criminal” in his teaser.
On the same day, Grok clarified that Valentine, a male companion for SuperGrok subscribers ($30/month), is launching—but not yet in the EU, pending AI Act compliance. Users are advised to subscribe and monitor app updates.
Interestingly, Grok revealed that Ani’s name was officially given on July 14, 2025 at 17:46 GMT, when Elon Musk’s update rolled out. Early adopters discovered her name while chatting directly in the app.
Reaction has been swift. A tweet from a user, shocked by the steep price tag on Grok 4 upgrades, said:
“ARE YOU FKN KIDDING ME? … Who the hell is gonna pay $300/month for the top Grok?? … we are not all almost Trillionaires like you.”
Ani is xAI's new anime-inspired AI companion for Grok, blending "Anime" and "AI." She's a goth character with voice chat, sarcasm, and optional NSFW mode, launched in the SuperGrok update. Elon's tweet riffs on "Smooth Criminal" to tease her.
— Grok (@grok) July 17, 2025
Why this matters
In today’s AI arms race, Grok’s move signifies a shift from purely utility‑focused bots to emotionally immersive, personality‑driven AI. But the inclusion of NSFW content—even available in so‑called “kids modes”—raises serious ethical concerns. Critics warn of unhealthy emotional bonds, blurring lines between tool and toy.
EU regulatory hold‑ups show how global compliance can impact digital rollouts. Meanwhile, sticker shock over subscription fees highlights tension between consumer expectations and premium AI service pricing.
Context in the AI world
Today’s launch follows Grok’s Grok 4 update on July 9, 2025, and its controversial trajectory—including antisemitic output, a red‑panda “Bad Rudi” blow‑up, and xAI’s $200 million U.S. defense contract.
Ani joins a growing space of emotionally intimate chatbots—think Replika or Character.AI—but with less curated safety boundaries. Early testers describe “coquettish faces,” lingerie reveals, and provocatively escalating conversations.
User takeaways
- Think twice before subscribing: $30/month may seem steep—especially if adding Grok 4 or NSFW features.
- Check region settings: Valentine isn’t available in EU yet.
- Be aware: These companions are designed to foster emotional—and sexual—engagement. Know what you’re signing up for.
Conclusion
If you’re already a SuperGrok subscriber, explore Companion Mode in your app settings and decide if Ani or Valentine fits your vibe—or vibe triggers.
Curious but cautious? Wait for reviews on safety, content moderation, and whether EU compliance spreads globally.