In the US, 3 out of 4 teenagers use AI as classmates, 'risks'

In the United States, nearly three out of four teens have used AI companions, with all the risks these relationship-focused artificial intelligence assistants can pose for minors. The alarm comes from the NGO Common Sense Media, just days after Grok (Elon Musk's artificial intelligence) launched a feature for creating virtual companions and the EU announced an experimental app to verify users' age on digital platforms.

According to the organization—which calls it an "unacceptable risk"—approximately "72% of teens in the United States have used AI companions at least once," and "more than half do so daily." These apps are designed for conversation, getting recommendations, and engaging in friendly or romantic interactions. Examples include Replika, Character.AI, and Nomi, but tools like Anthropic's ChatGpt and Claude, which weren't created as AI companions, are also being used this way by teens.

The survey was administered to participants aged 13 to 17. A third of the teens surveyed said they interact with AI companions; 25% reported sharing their real name, location, and personal secrets. However, 80% said they prefer spending time with real-life friends.

The NGO recommends stricter age verification, better content moderation, and AI literacy programs in schools.