Google to Use Machine Learning for Age Estimation

Google has recently announced that it is testing a machine learning model in the United States to determine whether users are under 18 years old, with the aim of providing them with experiences more suited to their age group.

The age estimation model will analyze existing user data, including websites they visit, types of videos watched on YouTube, and account tenure. If the system detects that a user might be under 18, Google will notify them that certain settings have been adjusted and offer options for age verification using selfies, credit cards, or government-issued IDs.

For accounts identified as belonging to minors, Google will implement existing safety features, such as the "SafeSearch" filter to block adult content from search results. Additionally, some YouTube content will be restricted for these users. Google plans to expand this technology to more countries in the future.

In a statement, Google spokesperson Matt Bryant emphasized the company's ongoing efforts to enhance transparency regarding age estimation at the account level.

This change may reflect growing concerns about online child safety in the U.S. In addition to laws like the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) and COPPA 2.0 (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act 2.0), tech giants must also address the Kids Off Social Media Act (KOSMA), which aims to prevent children under 13 from accessing social media. KOSMA proposes that platforms estimate user ages, though such age verification methods aren't always precise.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has also started using AI to scan for "signals" to determine if users might be under 18.

Starting next week, Google will enable parents to restrict phone calls and messaging notifications on their children's devices during school hours, a feature first announced last year. Beginning next month, parents can add contacts via the "Family Link" app, allowing only approved numbers to call or send messages. Additionally, Google stated that it will soon let parents manage payment cards in their children's Google Wallets.

Meanwhile, Google plans to make its AI-powered notebook app NotebookLM and educational AI tool "Learn About" available to teenagers.