Npr
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China bars AI chatbots' companionship features
Posted
July 19, 2026
Views
3,319
Likes
475
Comments
8
Engagement
14.55%
July 19, 2026
3,319
475
8
14.55%
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1:03Now PlayingIn China, many have had to say goodbye to their virtual friends and partners, as several big AI companies have suspended their AI companionship features.
The suspension comes as Beijing introduces new regulations on AI chatbots that limit the extent to which bots can simulate human-like relationships with the user, outlining that tools should not “induce emotional dependence or addition addiction.” Regulators further suggest they want to prevent subversion of state power and prevent AI tools from damaging real-life interpersonal relationships.
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