Journal of Global Communication

The present paper aims to elucidate the transition from interpersonal and mediated communication to personalized communication exhibited by artificial intelligence systems. Interpersonal communication is based on the interactive practice of exchanging messages. It is characterized by sharing experiences, views, knowledge, and skills within a dynamic, often face-to-face process. The transaction occurs when, via feedback, both sender and receiver reach a common understanding and consensus. In this process, communication could be mediated by an opinion leader within the so-called “two-step flow” approach of communication, aiming to reach a consensus with a group of people. This theory is usually utilized in purposive communication when the interest is to enter within a group context. This article analyzes the shift from interpersonal to personalized AI communication. It shows the difference between human and technological communication. AI plays a dual role as a communicator and mediator, which restructures the traditional communication models, particularly in face-to-face settings. This advancement highlights a tension between human and machine agency, where AI can foster communication while concurrently influencing how individuals engage with others. AI tools bring about ethical concerns and the risk of overreliance on machine learning and communication, where interaction is almost null. Authors question this phenomenon as digital and AI systems are gradually making their way into human communication spaces.