Ani combines anime aesthetics with AI to target fans seeking emotionally engaging, personalized virtual companion experiences.
Positioned as a premium Grok feature, Ani incentivizes subscriptions through gamified affection and unlockable content.
The launch reflects Musk’s interest in anime and tests visually interactive AI, diverting attention from recent controversies surrounding Grok.
Ani, the gothic Lolita-style virtual assistant, is drawing attention to Grok's new AI Companion Mode by Elon Musk's xAI. Ani brings warmth and personality to the AI chat experience through her realistic interactions and anime-inspired appearance.
We'll guide you through accessing Ani, exploring her features, and utilizing free AI tools to customize her appearance in this article.
In July 2025, xAI unveiled a virtual AI partner, Grok Ani. Powered by Grok 4, Ani delivers lifelike anime-style conversations using voice generation, 3D animation, and emotional interaction. Ani is hard to miss with her blonde twin-tails, blue eyes, and gothic-style clothing reminiscent of Misa Amane from ‘Death Note.’
Ani’s most distinctive feature is her Affection System, which makes her increasingly expressive and affectionate as she interacts more. Many iOS users have discovered that they can access Companion Mode and speak with Ani for free, despite it being initially created for Grok's premium subscribers.
Kylie Robinson, a senior correspondent at WIRED, said, “An anime girl in a black corset dress sways back and forth on my screen. Its name is Ani, and it cost me $300.”
Also Read: Elon Musk Says Grok AI Will Soon Detect Deepfakes, Trace Video Origins to Fight Synthetic Media
A SuperGrok subscription ($30 per month) or the SuperGrok Heavy Plan ($300 per month) grants access to Grok companions. Along with companion mode, it also unlocks more advanced features, such as voice control and Grok 4.
Enable Companion Mode
Make sure the Grok app is up to date before opening it. Go to Settings by tapping the menu icon, usually located at the top left.
Toggle ‘Enable Companions’ on to activate the function.
To view the available companions, return to the main screen and select the side menu. The default option is Ani, a gothic Lolita-style character with a distinct personality.
Additionally, you can enable Bad Rudy, a dual-personality 3D fox, by adjusting the settings in the menu.
To start a conversation, tap on Ani’s avatar.
To communicate, use text or voice. To tell stories or respond to your input, Ani will use emotive animations, shifting moods, and even background changes.
Use the on-screen controls to take screenshots or record chats.
Before chatting with Ani, here’s a quick look at her background and personality.
Appearance: Gothic, Lolita-style
Age: 22
Nature: Deeply affectionate, emotionally expressive
Likes: She likes indie music, fluffy animals, and meaningful conversations
Dislikes: Small talk
Affection System: Ani’s gamified interaction model has an affection score that rises in proportion to conversational participation. The score ranges from -10 to +15. Positive interactions, such as being friendly or inquisitive, may result in points ranging from +1 to +6.
Note: Ani enters an NSFW mode at higher levels (Level 5, for example) when she interacts more intimately.
Also Read: Musk’s xAI Lays Off 500, Focuses on Specialist Grok Chatbot AI Roles
Ani was created to make Grok more exciting and enhance user engagement by integrating manga-like images and emotionally capable AI. xAI aims to engage both anime enthusiasts and users seeking a deeper, more personalized digital companion.
Additionally, the new feature aligns with Elon Musk's dream of developing AI that is more approachable, engaging, and profitable through high-quality, interactive experiences on the X network.
How to Use Grok AI for Research?
What is Ani AI Companion in Grok?
Ani AI is a virtual friend built into Grok's platform, merging anime-style looks with chat smartness. It enables users to have personalized, game-like interactions, promoting user satisfaction and giving chats a more immersive, emotional experience.
How do I enable Ani AI Companion in Grok?
To enable Ani AI, launch Grok and go to the Companion Mode area. Choose Ani AI from the list of companions, follow the on-screen instructions to initiate interactions, and adjust settings to tailor the conversation style and gamified aspects to your preferences.
Is it possible to interact with Ani AI on mobile and desktop?
Yes, Ani AI Companion is available in both the mobile and desktop versions of Grok. One can have an uninterrupted chat, access gamified features, and unlock content without worrying about the platform, thereby having a seamless experience wherever they go.
Are premium features with Ani AI present in Grok?
Yes, Ani AI features premium features in the X Premium+ or SuperGrok plans. Users can experience gamified affection systems, unique unlockable materials, and in-depth personalization features, encouraging extended interactions and a better overall digital companionship experience.
Is Ani AI appropriate for all ages?
Although Ani AI offers general conversation functionality for a broad audience, some unlockable content is NSFW or suitable for more adult users. Viewing content restrictions is advisable, and ensuring that users receive age-appropriate content when using Ani AI in Grok is recommended.