China puts guardrails on AI companions over social stability concerns

China has decided that people falling for their chatbots is a governance problem. Beijing is restricting AI apps and chatbots because it worries the technology could interfere with human relationships and undermine social order. The instrument is a set of Interim Measures covering what regulators call anthropomorphic AI interactive services. These are AI systems built to mimic human behavior and hold emotional conversations with users. The rules took effect on July 15, 2026, and they are being described as the world’s first national rules written specifically for this category of AI. What the rules require The measures come from the Cyberspace Administration of China, working alongside other regulatory bodies. The core obligations fall on the companies providing these services, not on the people using them. First, disclosure. Providers must clearly tell users when they are talking to an AI rather than a person. Second, usage reminders. Platforms have to send users a nudge every two hours. Third, intervention. Providers must take steps to prevent emotional dependence or addiction. The rules get stricter for younger users. Minors under 18 are barred from virtual intimate relationship...