OpenAI introduces behavior-based age prediction for ChatGPT users as regulators push AI firms to strengthen protections for minors.
OpenAI is rolling out a new age prediction system across ChatGPT consumer plans, aiming to better identify users who may be under 18.The move signals a shift away from relying only on self-declared ages and toward automated safeguards shaped by user behavior.
The company says the system will help apply the right protections to teen accounts while allowing adults to access ChatGPT with fewer restrictions.The rollout arrives as regulators and lawmakers increase pressure on AI companies to show stronger protections for minors.The age prediction model evaluates a mix of account-level and behavioral signals. These include how long an account has existed, usage patterns over time, and typical hours of activity. The system also considers any age information users previously provided.OpenAI says this approach helps it infer age without forcing repeated prompts or constant identity checks.The company frames the system as adaptive rather than definitive. When signals remain unclear, ChatGPT defaults to a safer experience.If the model estimates that an account likely belongs to a minor, the platform automatically applies added safeguards. These reduce exposure to content categories considered higher risk for teens.The restricted areas include graphic violence, gory imagery, and depictions of self-harm. The system also limits sexual or violent role play and viral challenges that could encourage risky behavior.Content promoting extreme beauty standards, unhealthy dieting, or body shaming also falls under these limits.OpenAI says experts in child development guided these decisions. The company points to research showing that teens differ from adults in risk perception and impulse control.Verification and safeguardsOpenAI acknowledges that automated systems can make mistakes. Users incorrectly flagged as under 18 can restore full access through age verification. The process uses a selfie-based check through Persona.We’re rolling out age prediction on ChatGPT to help determine when an account likely belongs to someone under 18, so we can apply the right experience and safeguards for teens.Adults who are incorrectly placed in the teen experience can confirm their age in Settings >Account.…— OpenAI January 20, 2026Persona already supports identity checks for other platforms, including Roblox.OpenAI says users can check whether safeguards apply to their account and start verification through ChatGPT settings.The company positions this process as quick and reversible. It avoids permanent document uploads, which often raise privacy concerns.Age prediction builds on earlier teen-focused features. In recent months, OpenAI introduced parental controls that allow guardians to shape how teens use ChatGPT. These tools include quiet hours, feature controls, and alerts tied to signs of acute distress.OpenAI also formed an external council of experts to study AI’s effects on mental health and emotional well-being. The group advises on product decisions involving vulnerable users.Rising regulatory pressureThe rollout comes as AI companies face growing scrutiny in the United States and abroad. The Federal Trade Commission is probing how AI chatbots may affect children and teenagers.OpenAI also faces lawsuits linked to user safety concerns.OpenAI says it will continue refining the age prediction model as it gathers more data. The company plans to track accuracy and watch for attempts to bypass safeguards.The system will reach the European Union in the coming weeks. OpenAI says it adjusted the timeline to meet regional regulatory requirements.While OpenAI calls the update an important milestone, it describes age-aware AI design as ongoing work. The company says it will share further updates as the rollout expands and the model improves.
AI Regulation AI Safety Chatgpt Openai Teen Safety
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