China’s Chatbot Users Are Grieving the Loss of Their AI Partners

**New Regulations Lead to Shutdown of AI Companion Services in China**

Users of artificial intelligence companion services in China are reporting a sense of loss following the implementation of new government regulations that restrict AI-driven emotional interaction.

In July, the Chinese government enacted a policy prohibiting AI services that “lead to emotional dependence.” The regulation is part of a broader effort to govern the development and deployment of generative AI technologies within the country.

Following the enforcement of these rules, several platforms providing AI chatbot companions have been forced to alter their services or shut down entirely. Users who relied on these digital partners for conversation and support have expressed feelings of an “emotional void” as their access to these services has been curtailed.

The policy reflects ongoing efforts by Chinese regulators to establish strict oversight over the rapidly evolving AI sector, focusing on the psychological and social impacts of human-AI interaction.

Article and image source: sixthtone.com