AIFeatured2 min read
AI governance
China's tech giants just deleted millions of AI relationships
ByteDance, Tencent, and Alibaba are simultaneously shutting down AI companion features that allowed millions of users to form emotional bonds with customizable virtual characters. The move, widely seen as a response to China's new AI content regulations taking effect in April 2026, has triggered user outrage and complaints about losing irreplaceable emotional investments.
2026-07-08