Sizable rise in children using AI chatbots and seeing content that 'bothered' them, report says

Smartphone ownership has declined among 8- to 12-year-olds over the last four years. File photo

Over a third (36%) of children aged 12-15 are using artificial intelligence chatbots to act as a friend, to help them with their homework and to access information, a new survey has found.

Furthermore, over a quarter (26%) of primary school children aged 8-12 are using AI in the same way with little safeguards according to online child safety charity CyberSafeKids. Over a quarter of children reported seeing content or having unsolicited contact online that “bothered” them.