BYTEDANCE, ALIBABA SHUT AI COMPANION FEATURES

China's two tech giants are withdrawing AI companion features from their platforms as regulators prepare to enforce stricter rules governing how users interact with artificial intelligence systems. The pullback signals Beijing's broader effort to control AI deployment across the sector. Chinese authorities have ramped up scrutiny of AI applications, particularly those involving user engagement and data handling. AI companions—chatbots designed for extended personal conversations—have become increasingly popular globally. However, Chinese regulators have flagged concerns about how these systems operate and their potential social impact. ByteD ance and Alibaba's decision to preemptively remove these features suggests they anticipate formal restrictions. Other Chinese tech companies may follow suit as regulatory clarity emerges. The regulatory shift reflects China's approach to managing emerging technologies through direct intervention, contrasting with other jurisdictions still developing AI governance frameworks.