OpenAI Launches ChatGPT for Teens With Enhanced Safety Features and Learning Tools

<cite index="31-1">OpenAI is launching a version of ChatGPT designed for teenagers — the first generation to grow up with artificial intelligence — who are already using it for schoolwork, questions about daily life and even companionship.</cite> <cite index="32-1,32-3">ChatGPT for Teens is "designed to help teens learn, think critically, deepen understanding, and use AI with confidence."</cite> The initiative marks a significant step in addressing long-standing concerns about AI safety for minors. <cite index="34-1">The service is tailored for kids aged 13 to 17 with stronger protections including content restrictions around things like suicide, self-harm and romantic or sexual chats.</cite> <cite index="36-2,36-3">ChatGPT will be barred from using romantic language or terms of endearment with teens and will be more strongly instructed not to suggest that it has feelings, consciousness or emotions, with changes intended to reduce anthropomorphism and emotional dependence.</cite> <cite index="36-4">Teens will get more frequent break reminders during extended use, including reminders that they are interacting with AI, as well as warnings before uploading potentially private or sensitive images.</cite> <cite index="34-2">For homework help, OpenAI said the teen chatbot is designed not to give easy answers but to guide students to come up with answers on their own.</cite> <cite index="32-5">ChatGPT's Study mode is baked in, as are learning tools (including quizzes when available), and Study hours that let the teen or a linked parent/guardian choose when eligible new chats start in study mode.</cite> <cite index="36-5">Users who say they are 13 to 17 — as well as those OpenAI's age-prediction system estimates are under 18 — will automatically be placed into the teen experience.</cite> <cite index="35-3">After numerous lawsuits over AI chatbots' lack of safety measures, leading to teens' suicides and other mental health concerns, OpenAI announced the launch of ChatGPT for Teens.</cite> <cite index="32-7">OpenAI says ChatGPT for Teens is rolling out globally to eligible teen accounts on Free and paid personal ChatGPT plans beginning August 18, with full availability in Australia expected September 8.</cite> <cite index="36-7">OpenAI said, "If you don't build a safe space for them, they're going to go to a less safe model experience."</cite>