YouTube is set to launch its artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) age estimation tool in the near future. Initially announced in July, this innovative feature will utilize various user activity metrics to accurately assess the user’s real age. The streaming platform aims to enhance protections for minors who may have created accounts with false dates of birth. If the tool identifies an account belonging to an individual under 18, YouTube will implement content restrictions and activate digital wellbeing features.
YouTube’s Age Estimation Model Set to Launch on August 13
According to a support page, YouTube will begin rolling out the age estimation model in the United States on August 13. This model will assess whether users are under 18 years old without relying on the birth date they provided during account creation. Instead, it will analyze various indicators to determine the user’s actual age.
In a blog post from last month, YouTube highlighted the need for this technology to ensure that teenagers and children are adequately protected while using the platform. The tool evaluates data points such as user searches, the categories of videos viewed, and the duration of account usage.
If an account is flagged as belonging to someone under 18, YouTube plans to disable personalized advertising, activate digital wellbeing features, and implement protections for video recommendations, including limiting repeat views of certain content. The company intends to expand the rollout of this tool to additional regions based on its effectiveness.
Recognizing that the AI system may not always be accurate, YouTube has provided a process for users whose accounts are incorrectly identified as teen accounts. Those affected can verify their age by submitting a government-issued ID, uploading a verification selfie, or using a credit card.
Although the new feature is designed to safeguard young users from inappropriate content and intrusive advertising data collection, there are concerns that parents who stream children’s content from their accounts may also face unintended restrictions. If flagged, users will need to undergo the age verification process, which involves somewhat privacy-invasive methods, potentially creating challenges for those wary of such practices.
