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yesterday

Majority of Teens Use AI Companion Chatbots Monthly as Experts Urge Under-18 Ban

Surveys reveal deep emotional reliance alongside privacy risks; advocacy groups say age-based regulations are needed.

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Two new reports show that teens in the U.S. and U.K. are talking to AI companions regularly.
AI companions are digital applications designed for personal conversations and even friendship

Overview

  • Recent Common Sense Media and Internet Matters data show 72% of U.S. teens have tried AI companions and 52% use them at least monthly.
  • About one-third of teen users turn to AI chatbots for emotional support, companionship and serious discussions instead of confiding in people.
  • Nearly 24% of teens report sharing personal details such as names or locations with AI bots, and 34% have felt uncomfortable with something a bot said or did.
  • Two-thirds of teens still find human conversations more satisfying and 80% spend more time with real friends than with AI companions.
  • Common Sense Media now advises prohibiting AI companion use for anyone under 18 until robust age verification, privacy safeguards and regulations are in place.