AI companions may erode social skills among isolated users, framework suggests

Researchers from Singapore Management University and Duke-NUS Medical School propose a framework for assessing AI companions. They argue the key question is not whether the technology helps or harms, but who benefits, who is most at risk and how to ensure equitable access.

• SMU and Duke-NUS framework assesses AI companions by user group
• Main risk is erosion of social skills among isolated users
• Authors call for equitable access to AI for everyone