Grief Tech Apps Recreate Deceased Loved Ones Digitally, Raising Comfort Alongside Ethical Unease
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New "grief tech" apps use AI to create chatbot replicas of deceased loved ones to provide comfort to the bereaved. Some find it helpful, but it raises ethical questions.
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The apps build a picture of the deceased from their emails, texts, social media posts etc. to mimic their style of speech and personality.
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Users report mixed feelings - comfort at "reconnecting", but also unease at the simulated nature of the interactions.
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Experts say grief tech could help people move on, but should be used alongside human therapists to ensure healthy grieving.
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As the technology advances, consent and control over one's digital legacy after death is becoming a key issue.