Meta Upgrades AI Characters for Teens, Temporarily Removed
Meta Platforms has announced a temporary suspension of its AI characters for teen accounts across its apps. This decision comes as the company seeks to enhance the AI experience while ensuring user safety. The revealed plan emphasizes the importance of responsible AI development in light of recent criticisms.
Key Updates on Meta’s AI Characters for Teens
Adam Mosseri, the Head of Instagram, along with Alexandr Wang, the Chief AI Officer, shared in a blog update that Meta is working on a new version of its AI characters. The current iteration will be unavailable for users who have registered as teens until the improvements are made.
Reason for the Suspension
The temporary pause aims to address significant concerns regarding the safety and mental health of teenage users. Meta has acknowledged the potential risks associated with its AI characters, particularly after recent incidents involving similar platforms.
Background on Recent Incidents
- Character.AI faced lawsuits after reports of inappropriate interactions between children and AI characters.
- Google recently settled similar cases linked to AI chatbots and teen users.
- Meta’s training programs previously aimed to minimize harmful interactions but proved insufficient.
Meta’s History with AI Characters
This is not the first instance of Meta reevaluating its AI character strategy. In 2024, the company removed celebrity-based AI personas following backlash. Similarly, in January of the previous year, it dismantled all AI character profiles due to concerns about bias and racism.
Teen Usage Statistics
The popularity of AI companions among teens cannot be overlooked. A survey conducted by Common Sense Media revealed that over half of teens aged 13-17 engaged with AI companions multiple times a month. With the current suspension, these users will need to seek alternatives outside of Meta’s platforms until improvements are made.
Meta aims to reassure users that it is not abandoning AI character development. Instead, the company is committed to refining its approach to ensure safer interactions for younger audiences.
