Meta pauses teen access to AI characters ahead of new version

Meta has temporarily restricted teen access to its AI characters globally as it develops a safer, updated version tailored for younger users. This move highlights Meta's commitment to responsible AI use and safety amid growing concerns about AI interactions with teens.
Love it? Share it!
Illustration of a teen holding a phone with a stopped AI character symbol in the background

Meta has paused access to its AI characters for teens ahead of the launch of a new version of the technology, the company said in a blog post on Monday.

The move comes as Meta prepares to roll out an updated version of its AI chatbot, which is designed to be more helpful and engaging. The company said it wants to ensure the new version is safe and appropriate for younger users before allowing them to interact with it.

Meta’s AI characters are part of its broader efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into its social media platforms. These characters can engage in conversations, provide information, and offer entertainment to users.

By pausing teen access, Meta aims to address concerns about the potential risks of AI interactions for younger audiences, including exposure to inappropriate content or misinformation.

The company did not specify when teen access to the AI characters would resume but emphasized its commitment to safety and responsible AI deployment.

This decision reflects the growing scrutiny of AI technologies and their impact on different age groups, especially as companies race to develop more advanced and interactive AI systems.

Ivan Mehta

TechCrunch

more ai insights