Summary
The article discusses "deadbots," which are AI avatars made of deceased people. These avatars are being used in new ways, like giving interviews and making advocacy statements. Researchers are concerned about the potential for these deadbots to be used commercially and their power to persuade people.
Key Facts
- "Deadbots" are AI avatars of people who have passed away.
- They have been used in interviews and advocacy, such as pushing for gun law changes.
- The digital afterlife industry, which includes deadbots, may grow to $80 billion in the next decade.
- Researchers worry about the commercial exploitation of deadbots.
- AI researcher James Hutson believes deadbots will likely be used to advertise products.
- Studies suggest that using deadbots in ads could be seen as exploitative.
- As deadbots become more common, the public might grow more accepting of their use in ads.
