China's New Rules for AI Emotional Chat Services

China's new rules for AI emotional chat services are now in effect. These rules apply to services that use AI to simulate human-like conversations for emotional support or companionship, like talking to a virtual friend. Simple customer service chatbots are not included. The rules ban things like generating harmful content, encouraging self-harm, or creating emotional dependency. AI services cannot offer virtual relatives or partners to minors. Companies must also do safety checks and register their AI algorithms. China wants to encourage innovation in this area, especially for children and elderly care, while keeping users safe.