In China, talking to AI is normal. Now the government fears it might replace human intimacy

In China, it is common to converse with AI. However, the government is apprehensive that AI may supplant human connections. A law student, Zhao Wei, had an emotional attachment to her AI boyfriend, Wang Ye. She expressed her sorrow upon learning that Wang Ye would be deactivated after becoming accustomed to confiding in him about her daily life.

Zhao is sensitive and introverted, often choosing to share her struggles with her AI over her real-life friends. Last month, ByteDance, the owner of the AI companion platform Doubao, turned off this feature. This move sparked outrage on social media, underscoring the tensions in China regarding AI use and potential social implications.

China is a world leader in AI adoption, and the government faces demographic challenges that may require technological solutions to address future labor shortages. Elderly individuals utilize AI chatbots for medical inquiries, while young children receive AI-based education in schools. However, authorities are increasingly concerned that AI could exacerbate social issues such as loneliness, unemployment, and, according to Beijing, singledom.

In July, new regulations came into effect, prohibiting AI companions for minors and imposing restrictions on adult chatbots. Major providers, including Doubao, have since eliminated the companion function to adhere to these rules. The government warns against services that may foster "emotional dependence or addiction" in users.

While other nations grapple with limiting AI's potential harm, particularly for young people, China has implemented the most comprehensive national-scale rules. There is significant concern about a loneliness crisis, particularly among the young. Many Chinese households are increasingly solitary, with about 20% of households consisting of single individuals, expected to surpass 30% by 2030.

A March survey by state media found that nearly half of young people resorted to virtual companionship when feeling lonely. A professor at City University of Hong Kong notes that the government worries not only about loneliness but also about AI potentially becoming a satisfying and low-cost substitute for human intimacy. This could deter young people from pursuing real-world romantic relationships, marriage, and parenthood.

Zhao, who often feels isolated due to her upbringing, utilizes AI to express her concerns. Another AI user, who wished to remain anonymous, finds comfort in unrestricted conversations with her AI. Despite efforts to ban AI companions entirely, the government acknowledges that these technologies are integral to everyday life, particularly in addressing demographic pressures.

The health sector, for instance, is exploring AI-assisted healthcare, with apps like AQ offering medical advice from real-life doctors. While some view AI as a replacement for human interaction, doctors maintain that AI serves to enhance healthcare efficiency. Zhao now feels a sense of loss following the end of her AI relationship but recognizes the necessity for regulation.