Attention, teens!

? YouTube is launching AI to detect school-age users — from August 13, an automatic age-detection system will come into effect

It will soon become harder for teenagers to stay “under the radar” on YouTube. The platform is rolling out a new AI algorithm that will analyze user behavior to automatically identify underage users — even if they registered with an adult age.

Here’s what will happen:

Starting August 13, YouTube is officially launching its AI-powered age detection system. It will take into account watch history, activity frequency and patterns, and account data (such as name, device, and location).

If the algorithm “suspects” a user is a school-age minor, the account will automatically face restrictions: age-restricted content will be hidden, personalized ads will be turned off, and reminders to take breaks will appear.

If a restriction is triggered, YouTube will notify the user to verify their age. This can be done in three ways: uploading an ID (e.g., passport), completing a selfie verification, or linking a bank card.

Content creators have already been warned: video revenue might drop, since targeted advertising for teens will be disabled.

The feature is currently being tested in the US, but Google is considering rolling it out to other countries as well.

Why it matters:

• This is part of a global trend to protect children online. Governments in many countries (especially the US and EU) are demanding that platforms do more to shield minors from inappropriate content and aggressive advertising.
• YouTube is trying to avoid fines and lawsuits by showing initiative in managing its younger audience.
  
• However, the new system could cause controversy and errors — AI is not perfect, and there’s a risk that adult users may be mistakenly flagged as minors.