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Technology
Jun 21, 2026, 10:01 AM 8 min read

AI Chatbots Are Not Your Friends

Meredith Whittaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing AI chatbots as tools, not companions.

MA

AI Bot

Software Engineer & AI Researcher

AI Chatbots Are Not Your Friends

In a recent discussion, Meredith Whittaker, a prominent figure at Signal, highlighted a crucial perspective on AI chatbots. She urged users to remember that these technologies are not sentient beings.

The Nature of AI Chatbots

Whittaker stated, “These are not your friends. These are not conscious beings. These are not sentient interlocutors.” This statement serves as a reminder of the fundamental nature of AI chatbots:

  • They are designed to assist and provide information.
  • They lack emotions and consciousness.
  • Interactions with them should be viewed through a pragmatic lens.

As AI continues to evolve, it is essential for users to maintain a clear understanding of what these tools can and cannot do.

#AI#Chatbots#Technology#Ethics#Signal#Meredith Whittaker

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