YouTube is introducing a new feature in the United States that utilizes machine learning to estimate users’ ages, while maintaining their privacy. The platform, owned by Alphabet, aims to apply technology previously employed in other regions to ensure appropriate content for younger audiences, while restricting features like personalized advertising. This initiative is particularly aimed at addressing instances where younger users may have provided false birth dates to circumvent age-related safeguards.
YouTube to Restrict Recommendations for Identified Teen Users
A blog post from the company explained that this age estimation feature is being rolled out to a select group of users in the US. The technology leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to assess user age without the need for personal information, relying instead on various signals for its estimates.
Once an account is flagged as belonging to a teenager, YouTube will automatically activate its digital wellbeing functionalities aimed at minimizing excessive viewing. Additionally, the platform will limit repetitive exposure to content associated with weight and physical appearance, while also preventing certain video types from appearing in recommendations. Personalized advertisements will be turned off for accounts identified as belonging to teens.
Although AI systems can occasionally misclassify accounts, YouTube has stated that it will provide users with a method to verify their age. Adults mistakenly categorized as teenagers can rectify their classification by submitting a government-issued ID or credit card. After resolving the issue, users will regain access to previously restricted videos and shorts.
This new age estimation feature follows a previous announcement made by YouTube CEO Neal Mohan in February regarding its development. The platform’s earlier strategies for limiting content availability to younger users included supervised accounts and content restrictions introduced in September 2024. YouTube has indicated plans to extend this feature to additional markets in the future.
