ChatGPT rolls out age prediction for teen safety

OpenAI is rolling out age prediction on ChatGPT consumer accounts to automatically detect users under 18 and apply stronger safety guardrails. The system analyzes behavioral signals like account age, login times, and usage patterns to estimate whether someone is likely a minor. If the model flags an account, ChatGPT restricts sensitive content including graphic violence, self-harm depictions, sexual role play, and harmful beauty standards. Users incorrectly placed in the under-18 experience can quickly verify their age with a selfie through Persona to restore full access. Parents can also customize limits via existing parental controls, like setting quiet hours or disabling memory features. OpenAI says this approach is backed by academic research on adolescent development and risk perception. When uncertain about a user’s age, the system defaults to the safer experience. Why it matters: This is one of the first major attempts by an AI company to proactively verify age at scale, a move that could set a precedent for how other platforms balance safety and privacy for younger users.