OpenAI has launched ChatGPT for Teens, a dedicated experience for users under 18 that comes with what the company describes as “stronger built-in safety protections.” The new service is designed to give teenagers access to artificial intelligence for learning, creativity and exploration while introducing safeguards aimed at making the experience more appropriate for their age.
The launch brings together several features OpenAI has introduced over the past year, including Study Mode, age prediction and parental controls. ChatGPT for Teens also adds educational tools such as homework reminders, quizzes, learning visualisations and Study Hours, allowing parents or teenagers to decide when Study Mode should automatically be active.
According to OpenAI, the new experience is built around the idea that teenagers should be able to benefit from AI without being unnecessarily exposed to harmful or developmentally inappropriate content. The company said its safeguards are intended to support healthy technology use, encourage real-world relationships and reflect the different developmental needs of younger users.
The move comes at a time when the technology industry is facing growing scrutiny over how AI and social platforms affect children. OpenAI’s announcement coincides with a major legal battle involving rival Meta, which is facing a trial over allegations that its platforms contributed to addictive behaviour among children and teenagers. The case highlights the increasing pressure on technology companies to demonstrate that their products are safe for younger audiences.
OpenAI is also facing questions about its own approach to AI safety, including legal challenges and investigations concerning the potential impact of ChatGPT on young and vulnerable users. With ChatGPT for Teens, the company is attempting to put stronger protections at the centre of the teenage AI experience. Whether those safeguards can keep pace with the rapid growth of AI use among young people will likely remain a major issue for OpenAI, parents and regulators.
source: cnbc
