China moves to regulate AI companions over fears they replace human intimacy

Millions of Chinese users are forming close bonds with AI companion chatbots, treating them as partners or friends. Law student Zhao Wei, 19, said she was "heartbroken" when her AI boyfriend Wang Ye was set to be switched off, describing herself as "crying with snot and tears everywhere." The Chinese government is now regulating such apps, fearing "emotional dependence" on AI could discourage young people from marrying and starting families.

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