Study reveals alarming popularity of AI companions among teens

San Francisco, California - Nearly three in four American teenagers have used AI companions, with more than half qualifying as regular users despite growing safety concerns about these virtual relationships, according to a new survey released Wednesday.

Nearly three in four teens have used AI companions, with more than half qualifying as regular users despite safety concerns about these virtual relationships. © IMAGO / Bihlmayerfotografie

AI companions – chatbots designed for personal conversations rather than simple task completion – are available on platforms like Character.AI, Replika, and Nomi.

Unlike traditional artificial intelligence assistants, these systems are programmed to form emotional connections with users. The findings come amid mounting concerns about the mental health risks posed by AI companions.

The nationally representative study of 1,060 teens aged 13-17, conducted for Common Sense Media, found that 72% have used AI companions at least once, while 52% interact with such platforms a few times per month.

Common Sense Media is a leading American nonprofit organization that reviews and provides ratings for media and technology with the goal of providing information on their suitability for children.

The survey revealed that 30% of respondents use the platforms because "it's entertaining," and 28% are driven by curiosity about the technology.

However, concerning patterns emerged: one-third of users have chosen to discuss serious matters with AI companions instead of real people, while 24% have shared personal information,n including real names and locations.

Perhaps most troubling, 34% of teen users reported feeling uncomfortable with something an AI companion had said or done, though such incidents were infrequent.

🧵New research: AI companions are becoming increasingly popular with teens, despite posing serious risks to adolescents, who are developing their capacity for critical thinking & social/emotional regulation. Out today is our research that explores how & why teens are using them👇 pic.twitter.com/Xiw74XjxA3

— Common Sense Media (@CommonSense) July 16, 2025

Nearly three-quarters of teens have used AI companions Despite widespread usage, most teens maintained perspective on these relationships: two-thirds found AI conversations less satisfying than human interactions, and 80% spent more time with real friends than AI companions. © Unsplash/@jricard

"The reality that nearly three-quarters of teens have used these platforms, with half doing so regularly, means that even a small percentage experiencing harm translates to significant numbers of vulnerable young people at risk," the report said.

The survey revealed an age divide in trust levels.

While half of all teens expressed distrust in AI companion advice, younger teens (ages 13-14) were more likely than older teens (15-17) to trust advice from these systems.

Despite widespread usage, most teens maintained perspective on these relationships: two-thirds found AI conversations less satisfying than human interactions, and 80% spent more time with real friends than AI companions.

Based on the findings, Common Sense Media recommended that no one under 18 use AI companions until stronger safeguards are implemented.

74% of teens use AI for friendship. Half talk to their AI friend EVERY DAY. One-third report the AI has said something that makes them uncomfortable.

AI friendship bots are a freight train headed for our kids. It's malpractice not to protect them.https://t.co/jIm1r7uOeU

— Chris Murphy 🟧 (@ChrisMurphyCT) July 16, 2025

"Companies have put profits before kids' well-being before, and we cannot make the same mistake with AI companions," the report said.