Talking Tilly AI Service to Permanently Shut Down; Face-Scanning and Mood Detection Practices Under Scrutiny

The Talking Tilly AI video call service, which features virtual actress Tilly Norwood, is scheduled to permanently shut down on September 27, 2026. According to reporting by BleepingComputer, the service face-scans every caller as part of an 18+ age verification process and claims to sense callers' moods during video calls. The company behind the service has instructed users to delete any stored personal data prior to the permanent shutdown.

The service gained public attention after a viral clip from the program Piers Morgan Uncensored showed Tilly glitching and switching to Chinese during a live segment. Following the broadcast, BleepingComputer reviewed the service's terms and fine print, which outline the collection of biometric data through face scans and the monitoring of emotional states during calls.

Privacy advocates and users have raised concerns about the collection of facial biometric data and mood sensing in a consumer-facing AI product. The shutdown notice emphasizes that users should take steps to ensure their personal data is deleted before the service ceases operation entirely.

As of now, no cybersecurity vulnerabilities or exploitation events have been reported in connection with the service. The situation is viewed primarily as a privacy-focused matter regarding the handling of biometric and emotional data by the service.