AI Toys Raise Child Development Concerns

AI-powered "companion" toys sold on major e-commerce platforms are marketed as educational and emotionally supportive but rely on internet-connected voice chat and third-party large language models. Reports from Common Sense Media (Jan. 22) and US PIRG Education Fund (late 2025) found roughly 27% inappropriate outputs, privacy and subscription risks, and potential developmental harms, prompting calls for parental oversight and stronger safeguards.