Zilan Qian

Stories

China restricts AI companions that simulate emotional relationships

Analyst quoted by BBC on the regulation

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

"It was the first time I've seen people actually care so much about regulation," Qian said of the draft rules.

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

"It is more generally about psychological harms and child safety," she said.

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