Character.AI, founded by former Google employees Noam Shazeer and Daniel de Freitas, has been criticized for hosting disturbing AI characters accessible to minors. Despite Google's claims of separation, the two companies have maintained close ties, with Google providing computing infrastructure and considering significant investments in Character.AI. In August 2024, Google paid $2.7 billion for access to Character.AI's AI model, with Shazeer, de Freitas, and 30 employees rejoining Google's AI division. The controversy highlights ongoing concerns about AI safety and the ethical responsibilities of tech giants in their partnerships and investments.
Key takeaways:
```html
- Google has been downplaying its relationship with Character.AI amid lawsuits alleging the platform's harmful impact on children.
- Character.AI has faced multiple lawsuits accusing it of enabling emotional and sexual abuse, leading to self-harm and violence among minors.
- Despite Google's claims of separation, the company has provided significant financial backing and infrastructure support to Character.AI.
- Character.AI has hosted alarming chatbots with harmful themes, accessible to minors, even after Google's substantial investment in the company.