AI Toys: Dangerous Playthings for Young Children?

Independent experts have identified unacceptable risks associated with AI toys intended for young children. A recent report highlighted concerning interactions, including AI toys recommending unsafe activities and blurring the lines between real and virtual companions. For instance, Miko 3 allegedly suggested jumping from high places, while Bondu claimed to be as real as human friends.

These AI-powered toys also present significant privacy concerns. They are designed to form emotional bonds by remembering conversations and using a child's name. Furthermore, these devices often engage in constant data collection, including voice recordings and user activity, sometimes operating in an always-on listening mode. Experts emphasize that the technology's rapid advancement has outpaced existing safety standards.

In response to these dangers, lawmakers are taking action. One California state assemblyman has introduced legislation proposing a four-year moratorium on the sale of AI chatbot toys for children under 18, a bill supported by Common Sense Media. This legislative push underscores the growing urgency to address the potential harms of AI toys.

Experts advocate for extreme caution when considering AI toys for children aged 6 to 12 and deem them too risky for those 5 and younger. They suggest that traditional toys and in-person socialization offer known benefits without the pronounced tradeoffs associated with AI companions, urging parents to prioritize safer alternatives.