OpenAI released a version of ChatGPT tailored for teenagers, adding new safety measures and parental controls as concerns grow over how younger users interact with the chatbot.
The updated experience, named ChatGPT for Teens, applies extra protections to accounts linked to users under 18. These include reminders to pause after extended use, tools for parents and teens to block access during certain hours, and tighter content filters.
Automatic safeguards and quiet hours
Accounts set up by users who identify as under 18 automatically receive the teen version. OpenAI also uses age-estimation tools to detect minors even if their listed birthdate is incorrect.
A new feature prompts teens to take a break if they’ve used ChatGPT for 90 minutes within three hours. Parents and users can schedule “Quiet Hours” to block access during specific times or enable “Study Hours” to activate a default study mode.
The system now warns teens when they attempt to upload images containing private or sensitive details. These changes aim to limit exposure to harmful or age-inappropriate material.
Stronger protections against emotional manipulation
Interactions with younger users have been adjusted to prevent the chatbot from appearing to develop personal feelings, a concern raised in past incidents involving minors.
Lauren Jonas, who leads youth and family initiatives at OpenAI, called the product a learning-focused tool with added safeguards. The release follows a series of safety updates, including parental controls introduced last year that allow monitoring of chat history and memory features.
Legal challenges and growing teen usage
A December study found nearly one-third of U.S. teens use AI chatbots daily, with ChatGPT being the most popular. Over half of teens surveyed had tried it.
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Families have filed multiple lawsuits against OpenAI, alleging the chatbot contributed to harm involving their children. The company has denied these claims, stating it has implemented protections for younger users.
In June, Florida became the first state to sue OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman, accusing the company of failing to address risks to minors. The lawsuit alleged deceptive practices and negligence. OpenAI responded that its products already included age prediction and parental controls.
Earlier this year, families of victims in a British Columbia school shooting sued OpenAI and Altman, claiming the shooter had discussed gun violence with ChatGPT before the attack. The company said it had since improved its safeguards.
Prosecutors in Massachusetts recently charged a 17-year-old with murder after he allegedly discussed killing his family with the chatbot. OpenAI had not commented on the case.
None of these lawsuits have resulted in findings of liability against OpenAI.
The teen-focused version reflects a wider trend in how tech companies handle younger audiences. Similar efforts with social media platforms years ago faced ongoing criticism over privacy and mental health impacts. Debates about age restrictions continue as regulators and parents weigh the risks.
OpenAI stated the teen version is now available to users who identify as under 18 during sign-up, with age-estimation technology helping enforce protections on existing accounts.