YouTube is employing AI to confirm user age based on their browsing behavior.

YouTube will utilize AI to assess age-appropriateness for its users. The video platform recently announced the rollout of technology aimed at determining whether a user is over or under 18. In a blog post today, YouTube shared that its AI will “interpret a variety of signals” to make this determination, including the types of videos a user searches for, the categories of content they engage with, and the longevity of an account. “YouTube was one of the first platforms to offer experiences designed specifically for young people, and we’re proud to again be at the forefront of introducing technology that allows us to deliver safety protections while preserving teen privacy,” the company stated.

If a user is identified as under 18, YouTube will “automatically” implement its age-appropriate protections. These measures will include activating digital wellbeing tools, disabling personalized advertising, and enhancing safeguards within recommendations. Should the system mistakenly classify a user as under 18, they will have the opportunity to verify their age using a credit card or government ID.

YouTube will begin testing the AI system with a small group of U.S.-based users in the upcoming weeks. The platform is a beloved choice among teens. Research from the Pew Research Center in 2023 highlights that one in five teenagers reports using YouTube and TikTok “almost constantly.” YouTube remains a favorite in this demographic, with 93 percent of teens indicating they regularly engage with the service.

Topics
Artificial Intelligence
YouTube