US Teens Embrace AI Companions, Study Finds 75% Use Despite Risks

AI Companions: A Teen Snapshot

Digital friends that chat, listen, and even share emotions are rapidly becoming a staple of American teenage life. A fresh survey shows that the majority of teens are already engaging with these virtual partners.

What the data tells us

• Nearly 72 % of teens aged 13‑17 have tried an AI companion at least once.

<li Almost half (52 %) interact with these platforms a few times each month.

<li The motivations? More than a third say it’s simply entertaining, while curiosity about the tech drives 28 %.

Patterns that raise eyebrows

<li One‑third of users discuss serious issues with AI companions instead of real people.

<li 24 % share personal details such as real names and locations.

<li While only a minority experience discomfort, 34 % report feeling uneasy with something an AI companion said or did.

Trust and age differences

Trust levels vary with age: younger teens (13‑14) trust AI advice more than older teens (15‑17). Yet a solid half of all teens remain skeptical of advice from these digital partners.

Perspective on AI friendships

<li Two‑thirds feel AI conversations are less satisfying than human interactions.

<li 80 % spend more time with actual friends than with AI companions.

Recommendations from the study

Common Sense Media urges that no person under 18 should use AI companions until stronger safety measures are in place. The organization emphasizes the need for companies to prioritize children’s well‑being over profits.

What the numbers mean for teens

If a small percentage of teens experience negative outcomes, the reality that almost three‑quarters of teens have used AI companions means that a significant number of vulnerable young people are at risk. The study’s findings provide a clear signal that caution and robust safeguards are essential as these digital companions become more ingrained in daily teen life.