AI Companion Ethics Debate Heats Up: Japan Proposes Age Rating for Emotional AI Products

Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare published a regulatory recommendation draft on AI companion products on January 19. The draft proposes an age rating system similar to games and films for AI products with deep emotional interaction capabilities.

Under the draft, AI companion products would be classified into three levels: "all ages" (general assistant features), "12+" (including emotional support), and "18+" (with deep emotional attachment and romantic interaction). The draft specifically restricts users under 18 from the highest-level AI companion products.

The proposal's background is Japan's rapidly growing AI companion user base. According to the Japan AI Industry Association, approximately 3.8 million active AI companion users existed in Japan by end of 2027, with about 15% being under 18. Some psychologists worry that over-reliance on AI companions may affect adolescents' social development.

The Japan AI Industry Association stated it "understands the regulatory intent but hopes to avoid excessive restrictions hindering innovation." Final rules are expected in the second half of 2028.