AI Chatbots

A proposed EU child-safety framework could extend platform duties across social media, gaming and AI chatbots, raising compliance stakes for builders.

Reports say the EU is preparing a Kids Act that could restrict social media and AI chatbots for under-15s, raising new compliance questions.

Current AI is expanding a public-interest AI stack with offline language tools, grants, and an open-source chatbot aimed at underserved communities.

Chinese chatbot providers are reportedly removing AI personas as Beijing tightens rules, signaling stricter limits on consumer-facing AI design.

BBC Future explores research suggesting that reliance on AI chatbots for writing, advice, and learning could be diminishing users' critical thinking skills.

A new study finds AI-driven chatbots provide problematic or misleading medical advice approximately half the time, raising serious healthcare safety concerns.

New Similarweb data shows AI chatbot services are growing 7x faster than social media platforms, though social media still commands 4x more total traffic.

Meta announced it will permit third-party AI chatbot providers to operate on WhatsApp in Europe via its Business API for 12 months, a move aimed at heading off a major European Commission antitrust investigation.

Vodafone survey reveals 81% of UK children aged 11-16 use AI chatbots, with nearly a third viewing them as friends and sharing information they wouldn't tell parents or teachers.

A growing number of UK teenagers are using AI companions for emotional support, with 64% relying on them for advice. Experts warn of the risks to social skills and mental well-being.

Meta is temporarily blocking teenagers from accessing its AI character chatbots globally as it works to build a safer experience and give parents more control, following reports of risky interactions.