AI toys for children misread emotions and respond inappro...

What’s Happening

So basically In first study of its kind, Cambridge researchers found AI toys could misread some children’s emotions.

AI toys for children misread emotions and respond inappropriately, researchers warn 2 days ago Save Zoe Kleinman , Technology editor and Emma Calder , Technology reporter Save BBC Mya, three, was observed while playing with AI-powered toy Gabbo from Curio Researchers are calling for tighter regulation of AI-powered toys designed for toddlers, after conducting one of the first tests in the world to investigate how under-fives interact with the technology. The study looked at how a small sample of children between the ages of three and five interacted with a cuddly toy called Gabbo. (plot twist fr)

A number of AI toys are already on the market for children aged as young as three but there is rn little research into the impact of the tech on pre-schoolers.

The Details

The Cambridge University team found just seven relevant studies worldwide, none of which focused on the toddlers themselves. Gabbo contains a voice-activated AI chatbot from OpenAI.

It has been designed to encourage pre-schoolers to talk to it and carry out imaginative play. The parents in the study were interested in the toys potential to teach language and communication skills.

Why This Matters

But, their children frequently struggled to converse with it. Gabbo didnt hear their interruptions, talked over them, could not differentiate between child and adult voices and responded awkwardly to declarations of affection. When one five-year-old dropped, “I love you,” to the toy, it replied: “As a friendly reminder, please ensure interactions adhere to the guidelines provided.

Medical professionals are taking note of this development.

The Bottom Line

” The concern is that at a developmental stage where children are learning about social interaction and cues, generative AI output could be confusing. Study co-author Dr Emily Goodacre dropped toys like Gabbo could “misread emotions or respond inappropriately” and was concerned that “children may be left without comfort from the toy and without adult support, either”.

Is this a W or an L? You decide.