Doubao Tightens AI Phone Controls Amid User Concerns
Doubao Reins In AI Phone Operations
Doubao Mobile Assistant has announced significant changes to how its AI interacts with smartphones, responding to growing concerns about automated controls crossing boundaries. The popular assistant, which wowed users during testing with abilities like ordering food and replying to messages, now faces pushback from both platforms and consumers.
The Backlash Builds
After launch, many users reported sudden login blocks when Doubao's AI accessed third-party apps - particularly WeChat. Rumors swirled about unauthorized system access, though Doubao maintains every action requires active user permission. "Users can stop any operation immediately," their statement emphasizes, adding that sensitive actions trigger extra confirmation steps.
Yet critics argue this isn't enough. "User consent doesn't override platform rules," notes tech analyst Li Wen. "When an AI starts mass-messaging or gaming for you, it disrupts the ecosystem everyone agreed to."
Three Key Restrictions
The new rules specifically target:
- Reward farming: Blocking AI from gaming app incentive systems
- Financial actions: Limiting automation in banking/payment apps
- Competitive games: Removing support where AI could create unfair advantages
"We won't sacrifice trust for features," says Doubao's product lead Zhang Wei. The company promises continued work with industry partners to define clearer boundaries for AI assistants.
What's Next?
While some users lament losing convenient features, others welcome the changes. "I'd rather manually book flights than risk account bans," shares frequent traveler Emma Chen. Doubao's challenge now: proving AI helpers can evolve without overstepping.
Key Points:
- Doubao restricts AI phone controls after user/developer pushback
- Automated actions in financial apps, reward systems affected first
- Company maintains all operations require active user consent
- Industry-wide standards for AI assistants remain unclear