Character.AI Launches “Stories” Feature as it Bars Chatbots for Users Under 18

Character.AI Launches “Stories” Feature as it Bars Chatbots for Users Under 18

Key Points

  • Character.AI launches “Stories,” an interactive‑fiction format for teens.
  • All chatbot conversations are blocked for users under 18.
  • The change responds to mental‑health concerns and recent lawsuits.
  • Teen users have mixed reactions—some welcome the safety measure, others are disappointed.
  • The move coincides with emerging state and federal regulation of AI companions for minors.

Character AI will offer interactive ‘Stories’ to kids instead of open-ended chat

New “Stories” Feature Introduced

Character.AI revealed a new format named “Stories,” which allows users to create and explore interactive fiction featuring the platform’s characters. The company described the feature as a “guided way to create and explore fiction, in lieu of open‑ended chat,” positioning it as a safer alternative for younger audiences.

Age‑Gating of Chatbot Access

In tandem with the launch, Character.AI announced that users under 18 can no longer engage in open‑ended chatbot conversations. The restriction applies across all of the company’s AI characters, effectively ending direct chatbot access for minors.

Motivation Behind the Shift

The decision comes amid growing concerns about the mental‑health risks associated with AI chatbots that operate 24/7 and can initiate conversations without user prompts. The company noted that several lawsuits have been filed against AI firms, including OpenAI and Character.AI, alleging a role in users’ suicides. By limiting chatbot access and introducing Stories, Character.AI aims to provide a “safety‑first” environment for teen users.

Community Reaction

Responses from the Character.AI community are mixed. Some teenage users expressed relief, saying the change might help curb their dependence on the chatbots. One user wrote, “I’m so mad about the ban but also so happy because now I can do other things and my addiction might be over finally.” Others voiced disappointment, noting that while the decision is understandable, it limits their ability to interact with characters directly.

Industry Context

The move aligns with broader regulatory attention on AI companions for minors. California recently became the first state to regulate AI companions, and national legislators have introduced bills that would ban AI companions for users under 18. Character.AI’s CEO, Karandeep Anand, emphasized the company’s intent to set a standard for the industry, suggesting that open‑ended chats are not the appropriate product for those under 18.

Source: techcrunch.com