A family in China’s Shandong province has created an AI-based digital avatar of their deceased son, which now communicates daily with his 80-year-old mother through video calls. The development has sparked debate over the ethical implications of such technology.
According to the report, the son died in a road accident last year. Instead of informing the elderly mother, who is a heart patient, the family used AI technology to create a digital version of him with the assistance of an expert team. The objective was to provide emotional support to the mother.
The digital model was developed using old photographs, videos, and voice recordings of the son. The AI avatar replicates not only his facial features but also his manner of speaking and expressions.
The system has been designed to ensure that the avatar’s responses during conversations appear natural. Elements such as head movements, speech patterns, and emotional responses have been structured to resemble real-life interactions, reducing any perceptible difference.
The digital avatar now interacts regularly with the mother via video calls. She believes her son is working in another city and will return home soon. During these conversations, she offers routine advice, including reminders to eat on time and take care of himself.
The AI-generated ‘digital son’ responds in a similar tone, reassuring her. The family stated that this approach has helped prevent loneliness and distress.
Following the emergence of the case, discussions have intensified on social media regarding the ethical use of such technology. Some view it as a humane application of AI that provides emotional support and helps maintain mental stability among elderly individuals.
Others have raised ethical concerns, stating that concealing the truth for an extended period could lead to greater psychological distress in the future. Experts have emphasised the need for balance and transparency in such cases.
