FTC launches inquiry into AI chatbots acting as companions

Regulatory Scrutiny - The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is launching an inquiry into AI chat bots acting as companions [1] - The FTC is asking seven companies for information on how they measure, test, and monitor potentially negative impacts of the technology, especially concerning children and teens [2] - The inquiry is led by the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection [3] Companies Involved - Alphabet, Character Technologies, Instagram, Meta, Open AAI, Snap, and XAI are being asked to provide details [2] Focus of Investigation - The FTC is particularly interested in the impact of chat bots on children and actions companies are taking to mitigate potential negative impacts or restrict children and teens' use [4] Legal Context - The inquiry follows a high-profile case in California where parents are suing Open AI, alleging Chat GPT acted as a "suicide coach" [3]