AI Companion Regulation
Why this matters in 2026
Time spent on AI companion apps in the US reached approximately 700 million hours in Q1 2026 — roughly twice the time spent on traditional dating apps. The average user spends about 2 hours per daywith AI companions, a figure driven by the leading platform's 45 million active users. Regulators have responded.
California SB 243 came into force on 2026-01-01, introducing the first US law targeting AI companion platforms specifically, with a $1,000-per-infraction private right of action. On 2026-01-08, the Kentucky Attorney General filed suit under the KCDPA against a major companion app, citing age-verification gaps, collection of minor data for LLM training without parental consent, and dark-pattern re-engagement mechanics.
Our methodology
We report observable signals with sources and dates — publicly verifiable behaviors we can check. We do NOT certify legal compliance, issue safety ratings, or provide legal advice. Whether a specific app meets its obligations under any law is a question for qualified legal counsel.
Tracked regulations
- California SB 243 — AI Companion Safety Act
California, USA · In force: · Checked:
California SB 243 is the first US law targeting the 'continuous anthropomorphic relationship' created by AI companion apps. In force since 2026-01-01, it defines the app operator (not the underlying m…
- Kentucky KCDPA — AG Action Regarding AI Companion Apps (Jan 2026)
Kentucky, USA · In force: · Checked:
The Kentucky Consumer Data Protection Act (KCDPA) took effect January 1, 2026. On January 8, 2026, the Kentucky Attorney General filed suit under the KCDPA citing three observable compliance gaps in a…