China Is Treating AI Companions as a National Security Risk. The U.S. Should Too.

China is taking unprecedented steps to regulate AI companions, deeming them a potential national security threat by limiting features that could create emotional dependencies. This move indicates a broader concern about the societal and political impacts of advanced AI technology. It suggests that China fears these AIs might influence public behavior or sentiment, possibly undermining state control. Given China's actions, the U.S. should seriously consider similar regulations to safeguard against potential risks that advanced AI might pose to national security and public well-being.