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.