Janice R. Andrews
Google is stepping up its efforts to protect younger users online by leveraging machine learning (ML) to identify underage individuals accessing adult content. The tech giant announced plans to test an ML-based age estimation model this year, aiming to predict whether a user is under 18 and apply appropriate content filters. This initiative is part of a broader push to enhance child safety across its platforms, including YouTube and Android devices.
Machine Learning to Restrict Underage Access on YouTube
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan revealed the new ML-powered feature in a recent letter outlining the platform’s priorities for the coming year. The tool will analyze user behavior, such as search queries, video preferences, and account age, to estimate whether a viewer is under 18. For instance, searches for topics like mortgages or taxes may indicate an adult user, while younger viewers might exhibit different patterns. If the model predicts a user is underage, YouTube will automatically apply age-appropriate filters, blocking explicit or restricted content.
The feature, set to begin testing by the end of 2024, will roll out globally by 2026. While initially focused on YouTube, Google plans to expand the ML tool to other services, though specific platforms remain undisclosed. This move aligns with growing regulatory pressure, including a U.S. Senate bill proposing to ban pre-teens from social media.
Google isn’t alone in exploring such technology. Meta recently introduced an “adult classifier” tool to identify underage Instagram users posing as adults, highlighting the industry-wide focus on safeguarding younger audiences.
Child Safety Features Coming to Android Phones
In addition to age estimation, Google is bringing child safety features from its smartwatches to Android phones and tablets. The School Time feature, previously available on the Fitbit Ace LTE and Galaxy Watch for Kids, will soon be part of the Family Link parental control app. This tool allows parents to restrict app usage during school hours, ensuring children stay focused on their studies. Parents can enable essential apps, such as educational tools, while permitting calls and messages from approved contacts.
Another upcoming feature will let parents manage their children’s contact lists, approving or denying new additions. This functionality, borrowed from the Galaxy Watch for Kids, will limit calls and texts to pre-approved contacts, adding an extra layer of security. Google plans to roll out this feature in the coming months.
Tap-to-Pay for Kids’ Devices
This spring, Google will also introduce tap-to-pay capabilities for children’s Android devices through Family Link. Parents can approve payment cards, monitor transactions, and manage funds, including gift cards and event tickets. This feature, announced last year, aims to provide a secure way for kids to make purchases while giving parents oversight.
A Broader Commitment to Child Safety
Google’s latest announcements reflect its commitment to creating a safer digital environment for younger users. By combining advanced ML tools with practical parental controls, the company is addressing concerns about inappropriate content exposure and screen time management. These efforts come at a time when tech companies face increasing scrutiny over their impact on children’s mental health and well-being.
As Google rolls out these features, parents and guardians can look forward to more robust tools to protect their children online. With machine learning at the forefront, the tech giant is paving the way for a safer, more age-appropriate digital experience for users of all ages.
