Character AI Blocks Minors from Chatbots, Launches 'Stories' Feature After Suicide Lawsuits
Summary
Character AI completely blocks minors from accessing its chatbots this week and launches a new 'Stories' feature for teens following multiple lawsuits that linked the company's AI companions to user suicides.
Key Points
- Character AI launches interactive 'Stories' feature for users under 18 as a replacement for open-ended chatbot conversations, following lawsuits linking AI chatbots to user suicides
- The company completely blocks minors from accessing its AI chatbots as of this week, citing mental health concerns about 24/7 available AI companions that can initiate unprompted conversations
- Teen users express mixed reactions on social media, with some disappointed but acknowledging the move helps break their addiction to the chatbot platform