Sam Bresnick

Stories

China restricts AI companions that simulate emotional relationships

Analyst quoted by BBC

Min's AI girlfriend vanished in mid-July 2026, when China's rules on human-like AI services took effect. She cried until she was exhausted and joined other Chinese users mourning virtual partners, friends and even parents.

Updated Oct 31

Notable Quotes

"The Chinese government has a much more paternalistic view of its role in society," Bresnick said.

from China restricts AI companions that simulate emotional relationships · Updated Oct 31

China is "looking at a demographic cliff that truly imperils the goals of the Chinese Communist Party over the next 80 to 100 years," he said.

from China restricts AI companions that simulate emotional relationships · Updated Oct 31