As artificial intelligence chatbots gain popularity among users seeking companionship online, youth advocacy groups are ramping up protective legal efforts over fears that children can form unhealthy, dangerous relationships with the humanlike creations.
Chatbot apps, like Replika and Character.AI, belong to the fast-growing generative AI companion market, where users can customize their virtual partners with nuanced personalities that communicate and simulate close relationships.
Developers say AI companions can combat loneliness
