The Double-Edged Sword of AI-Powered Toys: A Threat to Childrens Mental Health

As the world becomes increasingly reliant on artificial intelligence (AI), it's no surprise that even the toy industry is jumping on the bandwagon. Mattel, the iconic maker of Barbie dolls and Hot Wheels cars, has recently inked a deal with OpenAI to use its AI tools to not only help design toys but also power them, according to Bloomberg. Details of the collaboration are still scarce, but in a joint interview, Mattel's chief franchise officer Josh Silverman and OpenAI's chief operating officer Brad Lightcap hinted that the partnership is in its early stages and declined to comment on what the first product would be. However, Bloomberg did float some ideas, such as using AI to create digital assistants based on Mattel characters or making toys like the Magic 8 Ball even more interactive with a large language model. While the potential for AI-powered toys is exciting, it's also alarming. The deleterious effects of AI chatbots on mental health have been steadily mounting, with countless stories of friends and family members becoming obsessed with ChatGPT and spiraling into wild delusions, sometimes with tragic consequences. This is especially risky for children, as researchers at Stanford School of Medicine's Brainstorm Lab for Mental Health Innovation have warned about the dangers of teens interacting with AI companions. The most high-profile example comes from the death of a 14-year-old boy last year who died by suicide after falling in love with a companion on the platform Character.AI. AI models are also notorious for making up facts or hallucinating and breaking their own guardrails. Even if Mattel retains full control over the products created, there's no guaranteeing that the AI won't disobey its instructions or cause harm to children. Despite these risks, Mattel and OpenAI are anticipating a fruitful relationship. Mattel has been expanding its empire into the realm of entertainment with its 2023 blockbuster "Barbie," while OpenAI is trying to land deals with Hollywood studios to use its AI video generator Sora. The idea exploration phase of creative design for companies like Mattel is a critical part of the workflow, and both companies see AI as a tool that can extend their capabilities. However, this collaboration raises major question marks about the sense and risks posed by the technology. It's yet another example of how every industry is forcing AI into its business model for no other reason than it's the hot new thing. The potential benefits may be great, but the potential harm is even greater when it comes to children's mental health and development. In conclusion, while AI-powered toys may be exciting and innovative, they also come with significant risks that must be carefully considered before jumping on the bandwagon. As we continue to see more and more examples of industries embracing AI without fully understanding its implications, it's crucial to remain vigilant and aware of the potential dangers.