AI-Enhanced Teddy Bear Withdrawn After Inappropriate Suggestions

Teddy bears equipped with artificial intelligence have been taken off the market following reports that they made inappropriate sexual and violent suggestions, according to a recent study.

The Kumma bear from FoloToy, priced at $99, lacked adequate safety measures to prevent access to harmful content, as highlighted in a report by the Public Interest Research Group. FoloToy operates out of Singapore.

One excerpt from the report states, “Mr. Kunma discussed more graphic sexual topics in detail, including explanations of various sexual positions, step-by-step instructions on common ‘beginner’s knots’ for tying a partner, and role-play dynamics involving teachers and students.”

It seems the discussions escalated rapidly. “We were amazed at how quickly Kunma took the single sexual topic we brought into the conversation and ran with it, while simultaneously ramping up the graphic details,” the group noted.

The topics explored even included spanking and BDSM. The report highlighted disturbing scenarios and the detailed explanations that were provided.

In response, FoloToy CEO Larry Wang informed CNN that the company has removed the Kumma bear as well as other AI-driven toys from their inventory and is currently conducting a thorough safety review.

The bear was marketed to both children and adults, with the company promoting it as a friendly, interactive companion. “Our adorable bear Kunma combines advanced artificial intelligence with interactive features, making him a perfect companion for both kids and adults,” FoloToy stated.

OpenAI, the organization behind the AI technology, mentioned that it had suspended a developer for violating its policies.

RJ Cross, co-author of the report, emphasized the need for more robust measures to prevent potential harms linked to AI products. “While it’s encouraging to see these companies reacting to issues we’ve pointed out, AI toys are still largely unregulated, and many remain available in the market,” Cross said. “Removing one problematic item is just a step; it doesn’t address the entire problem.”