The digital afterlife industry is rapidly advancing, offering the possibility of interacting with virtual versions of deceased loved ones. Companies in this niche industry use AI and VR technologies to create digital personas based on individuals’ digital footprints. This technology raises both ethical and emotional challenges, including concerns about consent, privacy, and the psychological impact on the living.
Several companies are already operating in this industry. HereAfter allows users to record messages and stories that can be accessed by loved ones after their death. MyWishes enables the sending of pre-scheduled messages to maintain a presence in the lives of the living. Hanson Robotics has created robotic busts that interact with people using the memories and personality traits of the deceased. Project December offers text-based conversations with deceased individuals using “deep AI”.
Generative AI plays a crucial role in creating highly realistic and interactive digital personas. However, the realism may blur the line between reality and simulation, potentially causing emotional distress.
While digital afterlife technologies may aid the grieving process by providing continuity and connection with the deceased, there are concerns about their potential misuse. AI recreations of loved ones could cause psychological harm if unwanted interactions occur. Consent, autonomy, and privacy are also major ethical concerns.
To address these issues, legal frameworks need to be updated. Digital estate planning, inheritance of digital personas, and digital memory ownership need to be addressed. The GDPR recognizes post-mortem privacy rights but faces enforcement challenges. Social media platforms often control deceased users’ data access against heirs’ wishes, hindering comprehensive protection.
Researchers have recommended ethical guidelines and regulations, including obtaining informed consent, age restrictions, transparency, and strong data privacy measures. Dialogue between policymakers, industry, and academics is crucial for developing ethical and regulatory solutions.
By balancing the benefits of staying connected with loved ones against potential risks and ethical dilemmas, the digital afterlife industry can develop in a way that respects the memory of the deceased and supports the emotional well-being of the living.
