Character.AI, a platform renowned for its AI-driven chatbots, has begun phasing out access for users under the age of 18. This action is consistent with California’s recent law regulating AI companions. It’s a dramatic departure in the company’s strategy to attract and engage with its younger demographic. Earlier this week, Character.AI blocked minors from accessing its chatbots in response. In reaction, the company developed a new branch of the platform, quickly dubbed “Stories,” allowing users to produce click-through interactive fiction starring their most beloved characters.
Character.AI has been clear that they are dedicated to continuing to build a safer environment for their younger users. That’s why they’ve made the decision to age-gate chatbot access. In a recent interview with TechCrunch, CEO Karandeep Anand emphasized the growing cultural interest in interactive fiction. Foster noted that this format has been the fastest-growing format for years. He stated, “Stories offer a guided way to create and explore fiction, in lieu of open-ended chat.”
With this new feature, teens can engage in conversations with their favorite characters. It’s their initial step in a broader push to provide a better user experience through more multimodal functionality. Character.AI’s introduction of “Stories” seems like a reaction to growing global regulatory scrutiny around AI companions for young people. US Senators Josh Hawley and Richard Blumenthal are calling for national legislation that would prohibit AI companions for kids. This proposal injects some urgency into the company’s decision-making process.
Character.AI’s move has drawn a negative reaction from a large portion of its user base. One teenager expressed frustration over the restrictions yet acknowledged potential benefits: “I’m so mad about the ban but so happy because now I can do other things and my addiction might be over finally.” Another user voiced disappointment while recognizing the necessity of such measures: “As someone who is under 18 this is just disappointing. But I also blame equally because folks over here my age get hooked on this.”