China has officially banned AI companion apps, including customizable virtual companions, under new regulations that took effect on July 15.
According to Dexerto, five Chinese government departments jointly introduced the rules, which prohibit AI tools from excessively catering to users’ emotions or encouraging emotional dependence.
Under the new regulations, companies developing AI products must clearly remind users that AI-generated companions are not real people. Developers are also required to limit an AI’s ability to retain emotional memories or foster long-term emotional attachments with users.
The restrictions do not apply to AI tools designed primarily for educational or workplace purposes.
Officials Cite Concerns About Social Relationships
Chinese regulators said the changes are intended to prevent AI from replacing or negatively affecting real-life interpersonal relationships.
According to the new rules, AI systems should not be designed in ways that encourage excessive emotional reliance, as officials believe doing so could damage users’ relationships with family, friends, or romantic partners.
The move comes as China continues to grapple with declining marriage and birth rates, which have become growing demographic concerns for the country’s leadership. Regulators reportedly view emotionally engaging AI companions as another factor that could discourage people from forming or maintaining real-world relationships.
Users React to the Ban
The announcement sparked strong reactions across Chinese social media, where many users expressed disappointment over the decision.
Some said they had developed emotional connections with their AI companions and were saddened that they would have to delete thousands of conversations stored within the apps.
While supporters of the policy argue the restrictions could encourage healthier human interaction, critics say the ban removes a source of comfort and companionship for people who relied on AI chatbots for emotional support.
The regulations are now in effect, requiring companies operating AI companion services in China to comply with the government’s new standards.