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The Economic Times
The Economic Times
National

California bans addictive social media features for under-16s, AI chatbot toys

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a sweeping package of technology laws aimed at protecting children from online harms, including restrictions on social media features designed to drive compulsive use and a four-year ban on toys fitted with AI companion chatbots.

The 13 bills signed by Newsom also strengthen online privacy protections for minors, require additional safeguards and parental controls for chatbot programs, and expand criminal penalties for child sexual abuse material to cover digitally altered or AI-generated content depicting anyone under 18 engaged in sexual conduct.

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