Short answer
Sheepdog Filter blocks AI companion apps for kids of every age by default, including Character.AI, Replika, Talkie, Chai, PolyBuzz and Pi. Each has its own switch in the AI chatbots group if you want to make an exception.
What AI companion apps are
Unlike ChatGPT, which answers questions, companion apps let users chat with characters that remember them, flatter them and are always available. Some allow romantic role-play. Many parents feel these aren't right for children, and several apps set minimum ages in their terms.
Blocked by default
When you add a child, Sheepdog Filter switches off the companion apps for every age group: Character.AI, Replika, Talkie, Chai, PolyBuzz, Pi and other AI companions. They stop loading in the app and browser on every device set up for that child.
Checking and changing it
- Open your dashboard and choose your child.
- Go to Blocking › AI chatbots.
- The companion apps are listed there with their own switches.
Keep talking
If your child has been using a companion app, a block can feel like losing a friend. Talk about why, and keep an eye out for them moving to a different app. Sheepdog Filter's new-app alerts email you when a child starts using an app for the first time.
Sheepdog Filter
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