OpenAI unveils ChatGPT for Teens with stronger guardrails, parental controls

OpenAI released a new version of ChatGPT designed specifically for teenagers, introducing stronger safety measures and parental controls. The "ChatGPT for Teens" mode restricts discussions on risky subjects like self-harm, violence, and eating disorders. It also offers educational tools to help students learn as opposed to simply providing answers.

The AI chatbot automatically engages when it determines a user is under 18 or self-identifies as between 13 and 17 years old. Parents can set "Quiet Hours," control certain settings, and receive notifications if their teen discusses sensitive topics. This initiative aligns with tech giants such as Meta, who have also improved protections for teens in light of mounting legal threats and evidence of negative mental health impacts.

OpenAI faces multiple lawsuits alleging that ChatGPT has harmed children, and the challenge is compounded by the human-like conversation capabilities of chatbots. Experts warn that relying on automation for mental health advice poses dangers, and families have criticized the lack of safeguards following alleged deaths linked to chatbot interactions. Additionally, growing AI usage by students for assignments has raised concerns about the technology's impact on learning.

OpenAI believes AI should expand educational opportunities, and the new mode includes educational tools like a study mode, homework reminders, quizzes, and visualizations. The Pew Research Center found that U.S. teenagers primarily use AI for information searching, homework help, fun, and entertainment. OpenAI estimates a user's age using a combination of self-reported age, behavioral and account signals, and verification, defaulting to the safer setting when unsure.