Calum Worthy, recognized for his role as Dez Wade in Disney’s Austin & Ally, has introduced a new AI app called 2wai, which has quickly sparked controversy. The app allows users to create digital avatars of their deceased loved ones, enabling interactions through recorded videos. A promotional video for the app has drawn comparisons to the dystopian themes often found in the television series Black Mirror, particularly reminiscent of an episode where a woman creates a digital clone of her deceased partner.
In the recently released promotional video on social media platform X, Worthy showcases a feature of 2wai that allows users to record memories. The video begins with a pregnant woman interacting with her mother through her smartphone. It then follows the progression of her son, named Charlie, as he grows, highlighting various moments where he communicates with his grandmother using the app. As Charlie matures, he is seen speaking to his grandmother while preparing to welcome his own child, reinforcing the app’s premise of preserving memories.
Critics of the app were quick to voice their disapproval in the comments section of the video. Many users likened the concept to the first episode of Season 2 of Black Mirror, where a grieving woman constructs a digital likeness of her late boyfriend. Comments ranged from calling the feature “diabolical” to labeling it “psychotic.” One user succinctly expressed the sentiment, stating, “Horrific. Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.”
Worthy responded to the backlash with a follow-up statement, emphasizing the app’s intent to create a “living archive of humanity.” He described 2wai as a platform for storytelling through avatars, stating, “It all starts with the social network for avatars: the 2wai app.” Despite the negative reactions, the app has generated considerable interest and discussion regarding the ethical implications of using AI in this manner.
The launch of 2wai raises significant questions about the intersection of technology and grief. As society increasingly turns to digital solutions for emotional connections, apps like 2wai challenge conventional understandings of memory and presence. The controversy surrounding this app highlights both the innovative potential of AI and the moral dilemmas it presents.
As the app gains traction, it will be crucial for developers and users alike to engage in conversations about the implications of creating digital versions of loved ones. The dialogue around such technologies will undoubtedly shape the future of how humanity interacts with memory and loss in the digital age.
