Is China banning AI companion apps

Contradicted by strong evidence

What we can confirm

China has not enacted a blanket, across‑the‑board ban on all AI companion apps, but it has introduced national regulations on “anthropomorphic AI interaction services” that ban virtual romantic and familial partners for minors and heavily restrict emotionally dependent AI companionship for all users, leading major platforms to shut down or radically alter their companion features.[1][4][10] General‑purpose chatbots and compliant adult‑oriented companion services remain legally allowed under the new rules.[4][12]

Sources

Checked July 27, 2026 · we'll re-check as this develops