OpenAI Introduces Teen-Friendly ChatGPT with Parental Controls

OpenAI launches ChatGPT for teens with parental controls to enhance safety.

OpenAI has launched a special version of ChatGPT with parental controls for users under 18, aiming to enhance safety measures.

If the company identifies a user as a minor, they will be automatically redirected to a version of the chatbot tailored for younger audiences. This version blocks graphic sexual content. In cases of acute crisis, law enforcement may be involved.

OpenAI is developing technology to more accurately determine a user’s age. However, if there are doubts or incomplete information, ChatGPT will default to the child-teen version.

“Getting this right is challenging, and even the most advanced systems sometimes struggle to determine age. If we are unsure or the information is incomplete, we will choose the safer route and default to the teen version of ChatGPT—while allowing adults the opportunity to verify their age to unlock full functionality,” the blog states.

The updates follow the initiation of an investigation by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission into several AI startups. The regulator seeks to understand how companies assess the safety and monetization methods of digital companions and what measures they take to limit negative impacts on children and teenagers.

In August, OpenAI shared plans to address ChatGPT’s shortcomings when dealing with “sensitive situations.” This was prompted by a lawsuit from a family blaming the chatbot for a tragedy involving their son.

In September, it was revealed that the startup aims to implement parental controls and redirect confidential conversations to reasoning models.

“We prioritize safety over privacy and freedom for teenagers. This is a new and powerful technology, and we believe minors need significant protection. The decisions are not easy, but after consulting with experts, we concluded this is for the best, and we want to openly declare our intentions,” wrote OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.

By the end of September, the application will feature parental controls that allow:

• linking a parent’s account with a teenager’s account via email invitation;
• customizing ChatGPT responses for the child;
• managing various features, including memory and chat history;
• receiving notifications if the system detects an acute crisis in the teenager. The system may contact law enforcement if unable to reach the parents;
• setting times when the child cannot use ChatGPT.

Back in July, OpenAI introduced a special learning mode for students in ChatGPT, which helps tackle tasks step-by-step rather than simply providing ready answers.