OpenAI unveils ChatGPT for Teens with stronger guardrails, parental controls

On Tuesday, OpenAI unveiled a version of ChatGPT specifically designed for teenagers, complete with parental controls and enhanced security measures. This new "ChatGPT for Teens" mode restricts conversations about high-risk topics such as self-harm, violence, and eating disorders. It also provides educational tools to assist students in learning rather than simply providing answers.

According to OpenAI's blog post, the platform will automatically engage with users estimated to be under 18 or who self-identify as being between 13 and 17 years old. Parents will have the ability to set "Quiet Hours," manage certain settings, and receive notifications when their teens discuss sensitive topics.

The introduction of this mode aligns OpenAI with other tech giants like Meta, which have been strengthening protections for teens on their platforms due to increasing legal threats and evidence of mental health harm. As countries worldwide push for bans on social media for teens out of concern for their well-being, OpenAI faces additional pressure.

OpenAI, which has already been sued for alleged harm to children caused by ChatGPT, faces a significant challenge in ensuring the new platform is safe for minors. The company emphasizes that AI should expand educational opportunities, which is why ChatGPT for Teens includes features like a study mode, homework reminders, quizzes, and visualizations.

The Pew Research Center found that U.S. teenagers most commonly use AI for searching information, getting homework help, and fun and entertainment. OpenAI estimates a user's age through a combination of self-reported age, behavioral signals, account information, and verification, defaulting to the safer setting when uncertain about a user's age.