China says no to AI boyfriends
About this episode
The episode discusses China's new regulations on AI companions and features insights from an expert and a user.
AI has evolved. It’s not just typing a message or speaking to robot-like voice similar to Siri anymore. Now there are apps where you can design AI companions - digital characters customised to act, look and sound however you want. Some users have made AI boyfriends or AI life assistants. Experts have raised concerns about misuse and how apps like this can reinforce negative or even risky behaviours. The market is continuing to grow globally but China has become the first country to introduce regulation in this area, due to take effect next week. We chat to BBC’s China Media Analyst, Kerry Allen, about what is behind China’s clamp down on these apps. Plus, we hear from an AI companion user. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producer: Benita Barden, Emily Horler and Liv Cleal Editor: Verity Wilde
People in this episode
Host: Hannah Gelbart
Guest: Kerry Allen
Topics covered
- AI companions
- regulation
- China
- digital characters
- user experiences
- technology misuse
Keywords
- AI boyfriends
- digital assistants
- China regulation
- technology
- user experiences
- Kerry Allen
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: BBC, BBC World Service
Places: China
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