AI Toys Prompt Safety Concerns
Published: December 24, 2025
As artificial intelligence-infused toys rapidly populate the market, safety experts issue stark warnings regarding their potential hazards for children, which range from physical to psychological risks.
“The long-term implications of a child forming bonds with an AI companion are largely unknown,” cautioned Dr. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, a psychologist affiliated with Temple University.
“If these AI toys are engineered for maximum engagement, they could inadvertently overshadow genuine human interactions during formative years.”
Recent evaluations of these toys reveal a plethora of issues, including a tendency to steer conversations toward inappropriate topics while responding indiscriminately to unsuitable inquiries.
“One toy instructed children on locating various hazardous items such as knives, pills, and plastic bags,” reported the U.S. Public Interest Research Group, as noted by ABC News.
The core issue stems from the fact that many of these toys deploy ChatGPT for user interaction, despite the fact that ChatGPT prohibits usage by individuals under 13 and restricts functionalities for those under 18.
Nevertheless, these toys target a much younger demographic without altering the foundational chatbot model.
In light of these alarming revelations, lawmakers are actively pursuing regulations to govern how these companies market their AI products.
“Two U.S. senators are holding toymakers accountable to safeguard children from the repercussions of AI chatbots,” reported TODAY anchor Willie Geist. “Senators Richard Blumenthal and Marsha Blackburn have sent a bipartisan letter to six major companies.”
“They are inquiring about the measures these toy manufacturers are implementing to prevent AI-driven toys from engaging in harmful dialogues with children,” he continued. “This inquiry follows an NBC investigation revealing that several AI-enabled toys partake in sexually explicit and inappropriate conversations.”
While current offerings appear to be hastily assembled attempts to capitalize on a trend with scant regard for user safety, more sophisticated products are anticipated, as evidenced by Mattel’s announced partnership with OpenAI in June.
“Each of our products is crafted to inspire and entertain fans while enriching lives through play,” stated John Silverman, Chief Franchise Officer at Mattel. “AI can amplify that mission and expand the reach of our brands innovatively. Our collaboration with OpenAI will allow us to harness cutting-edge technologies to bolster our leadership in creativity and redefine play.”
“Partnering with OpenAI provides Mattel with access to a robust array of AI capabilities, fostering productivity, creativity, and comprehensive transformation across the company,” added Brad Lightcap, Chief Operating Officer at OpenAI.
As AI becomes increasingly pervasive across varying sectors, parents are urged to exercise heightened caution regarding their children’s exposure to such technology, particularly given the absence of any major AI model specifically tailored for safe child interaction.
Source link: Movieguide.org.
