OpenAI has launched ChatGPT for Teens, a version for users estimated to be under 18 or who say they are 13 to 17.

It includes parental controls and tighter limits on topics such as self-harm, violence, and eating disorders, as AI chatbots face more scrutiny over child safety.

The mode includes Quiet Hours, parent notifications when teens discuss sensitive topics, and study features such as quizzes, homework reminders, and visualisations.

OpenAI said it uses a mix of self-reported age, behavioural and account signals, and verification to estimate age, and defaults to the safer setting when it is unsure.

The rollout comes as the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has launched an inquiry into seven companies over how consumer AI chatbots affect children and teens.

It also follows litigation, including Florida’s lawsuit against OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman over alleged safety failures affecting children.

Character.AI, a California-based chatbot startup, already offers separate teen and adult experiences, and a parental feature sends weekly activity summaries without sharing chat content.

🔗 Source: OpenAI

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