China Tightens AI Rules, Bans Custom AI Companion Features

China has introduced stricter regulations for AI chatbot and AI companionship platforms, requiring major technology companies such as Alibaba, ByteDance, and Tencent to remove customizable AI persona features before the new rules take effect on July 15. The regulations prohibit AI services from offering virtual romantic partners or family members to minors and require parental consent for users below the age of 14.

The move comes amid growing concerns over user privacy, explicit content, and the psychological impact of AI companionship. Chinese regulators have already removed more than 3,500 non-compliant AI products during a nationwide crackdown and are expected to intensify action against AI-generated misinformation and inappropriate content in the coming months.