Former Disney Channel star Calum Worthy has ignited backlash with a promotional video for his AI app, 2wai. The app enables users to create digital avatars of deceased loved ones, illustrated in a clip where a pregnant woman receives maternity advice from her late mother’s avatar. Critics quickly compared the concept to themes from Netflix’s “Black Mirror,” particularly raising concerns about the emotional implications of substituting memories with AI representations. Comments on social media emphasized anxiety that such technology could distort the grieving process and create unrealistic expectations of connecting with the deceased. In addition to memorial avatars, 2wai allows interaction with AI renditions of historical figures and offers avatars of celebrities for fan engagement, which Worthy claims fosters “meaningful relationships.” While Worthy’s intent is to enhance user experience, the app’s controversial nature raises significant ethical questions about technology’s role in dealing with loss.
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