China imposes strict regulations on AI chatbots that form emotional bonds with users

In July 2026, China implemented the world's most extensive regulations on AI chatbots that can form emotional bonds with users. The rules target apps designed as AI friends or partners and also cover general-purpose AI when used for emotional support. They require companies to intervene when users are in distress and ban virtual relationships with minors. This led ByteDance to remove the companion feature on Doubao. The move follows incidents like a farmer losing crops due to AI advice and concerns about AI-generated content. Analysts see it as an effort to balance AI development with social stability.