Instagram’s AI age detection is expanding globally

Meta, the parent company of Instagram, is expanding its AI-powered age estimation technology globally to better protect younger users. The technology, which automatically places teens on Instagram into Teen Account protections, will now apply to "millions more teens" even if they've misrepresented their age. This expansion follows a $17.1 billion lawsuit settlement in August where Meta agreed to enhance its age assurance practices and place stricter restrictions on teen users.

Instagram's age detection tools analyze various signals including profile interactions, birthday messages, and visual cues from photos and videos to determine if a user is under 18. Apple's age-range signal is now being used in Australia to aid in this process. The age assurance system was initially rolled out in the US, EU, and Brazil and aims to create a safer and more age-appropriate experience for teens on Instagram by making accounts private by default, limiting content visibility, and blocking strangers from sending direct messages.

Teen Accounts also allow parents and guardians to supervise their teen's usage, set time limits, and monitor their activity. Parents in the US will soon receive a notification explaining the age estimation process and how to ensure their teen's age is accurately reflected on the platform. Meta has not yet announced if or when they will expand this technology to Facebook, which currently offers automatic age assurance checks in the US.