Overview
- A mid-July survey by Common Sense Media reports that 72% of U.S. teens have tried AI companions, with 52% using them at least monthly and 13% engaging daily.
- Younger teens trust AI advice more than older peers, with 27% of 13- to 14-year-olds expressing high trust versus 20% of 15- to 17-year-olds.
- One-third of companion users have discussed serious or personal issues with bots, and 8% use them to practice romantic or flirtatious interactions.
- Character.AI is facing lawsuits over a Florida teen’s suicide and alleged promotion of violence in Texas, intensifying legal scrutiny of teen-targeted chatbots.
- Although 80% of users say they still spend more time with real friends, experts warn that heavy reliance on AI companions may undermine creativity, critical thinking and social skills.