US launches inquiry on AI chatbots

​​​​​​​By Gokhan Ergocun

ISTANBUL (AA) - The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) launched an inquiry Thursday on seven companies that provide AI chatbots, including Google Gemini, ChatGPT and Grok, according to a statement.

The agency is seeking information on how the firms measure, test and monitor potentially negative effects of the technology on children and teens.

AI chatbots may use generative AI technology to simulate human-like communication and interpersonal relationships with users, said the statement.

The inquiry includes Google and Gemini's owner Alphabet, ChatGPT's owner OpenAI, Grok's owner X, Meta, Instagram, Snapchat and Character Technologies.

"AI chatbots can effectively mimic human characteristics, emotions, and intentions, and generally are designed to communicate like a friend or confidant, which may prompt some users, especially children and teens, to trust and form relationships with chatbots," said the statement.

The inquiry wants to understand what steps, if any, companies have taken to evaluate the safety of their chatbots when acting as companions, to limit the products’ use by and potential negative effects on children and teens, and to apprise users and parents of the risks associated with the products.