Companion AI Regulation

Companion AI, systems designed to simulate friendship, emotional support, or romantic relationships, has attracted regulatory attention because of its potential psychological impact on users, particularly minors and vulnerable adults. Several high-profile cases involving minors and companion AI platforms have accelerated legislative action.

California, Texas, and several other US states have introduced or passed legislation requiring safety features, age verification, and disclosure obligations for AI companion products. The EU AI Act's provisions on manipulative AI are relevant to companion products that exploit psychological vulnerabilities.

For compliance and legal teams at organizations building or distributing companion AI products, this regulatory area is moving quickly and the liability exposure from getting it wrong is significant. This hub tracks legislation, enforcement actions, and the policy debates defining responsible companion AI.