Google Uses AI to Predict Your Age Across All Platforms
▼ Summary
– Google is introducing an AI-powered age verification method that analyzes user activity, primarily on YouTube, to estimate age.
– If the AI incorrectly guesses a user is under 18, they must verify their age via credit card, government ID, or selfie to restore account access.
– The system uses machine learning to interpret existing account signals like YouTube search history, video categories watched, and account age.
– Unverified under-18 accounts will face restrictions like YouTube Digital Wellbeing tools, disabled Maps Timeline, and no personalized ads.
– The feature is rolling out first to a small group of US users before expanding later this year.
Google is rolling out an AI-driven system to estimate users’ ages across its platforms, with YouTube serving as the primary data source. The technology leverages machine learning to analyze existing account activity rather than collecting new information. If the system incorrectly identifies someone as under 18, they’ll need to verify their age through documentation or facial recognition.
The initiative aims to create a safer online environment for younger users by automatically applying restrictions when the AI detects underage activity. These limitations include enabling YouTube’s Digital Wellbeing features, disabling personalized ads, and blocking access to mature content on Google Play. While the company claims successful testing in other regions, questions remain about the system’s accuracy, especially regarding shared devices or clever workarounds.
Currently, the feature is being introduced to a limited group of U.S. users before expanding later this year. Those flagged as minors will receive notifications and emails guiding them through age verification. Options include submitting a credit card, government ID, or a selfie to regain full account access. Without confirmation, Google enforces default protections designed for younger audiences.
Though YouTube appears to be the main platform feeding data into the algorithm, the restrictions span multiple Google services. The company emphasizes that no additional personal information is being gathered, instead, the AI examines search behavior, video preferences, and account age. Still, some users may find the automated process intrusive if errors occur.
As digital platforms face increasing pressure to protect minors, Google’s approach highlights the growing role of AI in age verification. However, its effectiveness in real-world scenarios, where browsing habits don’t always align with actual age, remains to be seen. Parents and adult users should stay alert for unexpected account changes as the system rolls out.
(Source: ZDNET)
