Elderly Woman Unknowingly Speaks to AI Clone of Deceased Son in China

For years, a growing industry in China has offered families the chance to interact with AI clones of deceased loved ones—at a recurring monthly cost. But what happens when the surviving family member remains unaware they’re speaking to an artificial replica rather than the real person?

According to the South China Morning Post, citing reporting from the Chinese news outlet Litchi News, an octogenarian mother in Shandong province has been unknowingly engaging in regular video calls with an AI version of her son, who died in a road accident. The woman, who suffers from heart disease, was kept in the dark by her family, who “hoped to conceal the news” of her only child’s death.

How the AI Clone Was Created

The woman’s grandson reportedly contacted an AI tech businessman, providing photos, videos, and audio recordings of his recently deceased father. The businessman, who spoke to Litchi News, jokingly described his work as “deceiving people’s emotions,” adding, “what we do is to comfort the living.”

Conversations Between Mother and AI Son

The AI clone informed the woman that her son had moved and was unable to meet in person. Their exchanges reveal a poignant yet unsettling dynamic:

“You should call me more often so that I know whether you live well or not in another city,” the unsuspecting mother told the AI. “I am missing you so much. I feel so sorry that I cannot see you in person.”

“OK, mum,” the AI replied. “But I am too busy. I cannot talk to you for a long time. You take care of yourself. When I have made enough money, I will return home to pay my filial piety to you.”

Ethical Concerns and Public Reaction

While the story is plausible, some skepticism remains. Though Litchi News appears to exist—allegedly owned by the Jiangsu Broadcasting Corporation, China’s third-largest TV network—the original report could not be independently verified.

Nevertheless, the story sparked outrage online. Netizens condemned the family’s actions, arguing that the deception could cause more harm than the truth.

• “This is one of the worst likely uses of AI,” one Reddit user commented.
• “This is going to harm this woman more than the truth,” another user added.

Broader Implications of AI Clones

This case highlights the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI technology in eldercare. While AI clones may offer temporary comfort, they also raise questions about deception, emotional well-being, and long-term psychological impact on grieving families.