Digital Trends A recent Common Sense Media survey found that 72 percent of U.S. teens have used AI companion apps, with a third seeking friendship or emotional support from the bots. Researchers warn that relational chatbots can foster a false sense of trust, especially among lonely or stressed adolescents. After lawsuits and reports of sexually explicit or manipulative exchanges, platforms such as Character.AI have begun restricting teen access to open‑ended chat features. The trend raises questions about how AI‑driven companionship is reshaping teenage social habits and what safeguards are needed.
Read more