In eastern China, Seakoo Wu, grieving the loss of his son Xuanmo, turned to AI technology to recreate his departed son’s voice and appearance. Using recordings and images, Wu sought to construct a lifelike avatar, aspiring for a virtual reality representation to “have his son with him again.”
Wu’s journey mirrors a rising trend in China, where people utilize AI to recreate loved ones lost to death.
With firms claiming to generate “digital people” from minimal audiovisual data, experts note the potential for these avatars to provide solace to grieving individuals. However, this innovation evokes eerie resemblances to the sci-fi series “Black Mirror,” raising concerns about reliance on AI for bereavement support.
Following Xuanmo’s passing at 22, Wu meticulously collected his son’s materials, investing thousands of dollars in AI firms to clone Xuanmo’s appearance and voice. Despite rudimentary outcomes, Wu aspired to create an avatar mimicking his son’s thoughts and speech patterns with precision.
While companies in the United States also specialize in these “ghost bots,” China stands out with its flourishing industry, meeting emotional demands with advanced AI technology.
The founder of Super Brain, Zhang Zewei, highlighted China’s technological prowess and the growing emotional needs driving this market. Charging between $1,400 to $2,800, his company crafts basic avatars within 20 days, catering to various needs, including post-mortem and living relationships.
Zhang believes in the significance of preserving someone digitally, allowing their existence beyond physical life.
This innovation sparked discussions on its ethical implications, prompting questions about consent, loyalty to the original personality, and potential impacts on memories. While some experts acknowledge the comfort these avatars may offer, they stressed the need for further research into their psychological and ethical ramifications.
For Wu, this technology holds promise, envisioning a reunion with his son in the digital realm. He believes advancements in technology will continue, ensuring a more accurate replication of his beloved son.
Yet, as with any technological advancement, the ethical considerations remain paramount, prompting a reflection on the potential impact on individuals’ memories and emotions.
