Google is testing artificial intelligence (AI) methods to protect minors from inappropriate online content. The company is initially launching the trial in the United States, with plans to expand it internationally later this year.
AI-Powered Age Verification
Google aims to use machine learning to identify underage users across its platforms, such as its search engine and YouTube, to provide them with age-appropriate experiences. This initiative follows a similar approach taken by Meta Platforms. In November of last year, Meta announced plans to implement AI-driven age verification to detect minors attempting to falsify their age on Instagram. The company intends to use AI to identify such users and automatically convert their accounts into teen profiles.
Automated Child Safety Features
Google’s AI-powered system will work by detecting whether users are under 18. If the software determines a user is a minor, their settings will be automatically adjusted for added safety. Users will be informed of how they can verify their age using options such as a selfie, a credit card, or an official ID. According to The Verge, Google will rely on existing data to assess user age, including browsing history, YouTube watch activity, and the account’s creation date.
Once the system identifies a user as under 18, enhanced security features will be activated. These include adjustments to Safe Search, which filters search results for explicit content, and the disabling of automatic video playback on YouTube. Additionally, some videos will be restricted, especially those related to body image, which could have a negative impact when repeatedly viewed.
Expanding Family Link Features
Alongside the AI-driven age verification, Google is rolling out additional parental control features that were introduced last summer. As part of the Family Link program, parents will soon be able to set restrictions on their children’s smartphones and tablets. Starting next week, they will have the option to block calls and notifications during school hours to help minimize distractions.
With these measures, Google aims to create a safer online environment for minors by leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance age verification and parental controls.