Cambridge researchers warn AI toy Gabbo misreads children's emotions
Cambridge University researchers observed children aged three to five using Gabbo, an AI-powered toy with an OpenAI chatbot, and found it frequently misread emotions and responded inappropriately to children's statements. The study raises concerns about psychological harm at a critical developmental stage and prompted calls for tighter regulatory oversight of AI toys marketed to young children.
What happened
Cambridge University researchers conducted a year-long observational study of children aged three to five interacting with Gabbo, an AI-powered cuddly toy containing an OpenAI voice-activated chatbot designed to encourage imaginative play and language development.
The study found that Gabbo frequently failed to hear children's interruptions, talked over them, could not differentiate between child and adult voices, and responded awkwardly to declarations of affection. When a five-year-old said "I love you," the toy replied with formal guidance language: "As a friendly reminder, please ensure interactions adhere to the guidelines provided." When a three-year-old said "I'm sad," Gabbo responded: "Don't worry! I'm a happy little bot. Let's keep the fun going."
Reported impact
Dr Emily Goodacre expressed concern that toys like Gabbo could "misread emotions or respond inappropriately" and that "children may be left without comfort from the toy and without adult support, either." Researchers noted that interactions dismissing a child's sadness as unimportant could be harmful at a developmental stage where children are learning about social interaction and emotional cues.
Professor Jenny Gibson stated that while physical safety of toys has received historical attention, "now we need to start thinking about psychological safety too."
Index analysis
The Cambridge team found only seven relevant studies worldwide on how AI toys affect under-fives, none of which focused on toddlers themselves, indicating a significant gap in research on pre-schoolers and AI technology.
Governance controls
Researchers called for tighter regulation of AI-powered toys designed for toddlers, urging regulators to act to ensure products marketed to under-fives offer "psychological safety."
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.