People around the world are using AI to continue the bonds they have with loved ones who have passed away. Through creating AI chatbots that simulate the dead based on old messages or other personal details, they can see a familiar face on the screen, hear a voice they know so well, and feel as though they are reconnecting with the person they miss. Such AI simulations of the deceased — known in academia as “ghostbots,” “deadbots,” or “griefbots” — can respond to questions, sustain conversations, and even place phone calls.
torsdag 18. september 2025
AI ‘Ghostbots’ Update China’s Relationship With the Dead
During the Ghost Festival on September 6, people across China honored the spirits of their ancestors by burning joss paper, floating lanterns, or even offering painkillers and Labubu dolls. Others simply communicated with their late relative using their smartphone — and even receive a reply.
People around the world are using AI to continue the bonds they have with loved ones who have passed away. Through creating AI chatbots that simulate the dead based on old messages or other personal details, they can see a familiar face on the screen, hear a voice they know so well, and feel as though they are reconnecting with the person they miss. Such AI simulations of the deceased — known in academia as “ghostbots,” “deadbots,” or “griefbots” — can respond to questions, sustain conversations, and even place phone calls.
People around the world are using AI to continue the bonds they have with loved ones who have passed away. Through creating AI chatbots that simulate the dead based on old messages or other personal details, they can see a familiar face on the screen, hear a voice they know so well, and feel as though they are reconnecting with the person they miss. Such AI simulations of the deceased — known in academia as “ghostbots,” “deadbots,” or “griefbots” — can respond to questions, sustain conversations, and even place phone calls.
