Prince Harry Warns AI Companion Chatbots Pose Greater Risk to Youth Than Social Media

Prince Harry cautioned on Wednesday that artificial intelligence chatbots built to offer companionship present a graver threat to young people than social media, speaking at the Clinton Global Initiative in New York.

"The technology is more persuasive, more intimate, and more powerful," the Duke of Sussex said. "AI is learning how to enter our relationships. It doesn't just want your attention, it wants your attachment."

Harry first raised concerns about social media's toll on youth at the same gathering in 2024, describing an "epidemic" of anxiety, depression and social isolation among young people. He and his wife, Meghan, subsequently founded The Parents Network through their Archewell Foundation.

On Wednesday, Harry said the network had made progress, but acknowledged that rapid technological change had made an already "uphill battle" harder. He pointed to growing recognition among families, young people, experts and advocates that the technology can cause harm, while arguing that current responses remain insufficient.

"Bans, settlements and payouts are incomplete remedies," he said.

His remarks came after Meta agreed last month to pay up to $18 billion and introduce stronger child-safety measures across Facebook and Instagram, in a landmark legal settlement that ended a trial over teen social media addiction and resolved claims brought by nearly every state. The case had sought to hold the company accountable for features designed to capture young users' attention.

Also at the conference, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton discussed the potential dangers of AI, saying that addressing the risks through international agreements is a matter President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping should take up this week.

Former President Bill Clinton opened this year's CGI on Tuesday, urging business and philanthropic leaders to help fill funding gaps left by "retreating governments."

Wednesday's appearance was Prince Harry's first public engagement in the United States since he and his family returned to England in August for an extended stay.