OpenAI Launches ChatGPT for Teens With Enhanced Safeguards and Study Features

OpenAI has introduced ChatGPT for Teens, a version of its AI chatbot designed for users aged 13 to 17. This release aims to address safety concerns while supporting learning and creativity among teenagers. The new version includes age-appropriate safeguards to reduce exposure to harmful or inappropriate content. Parents can also add parental controls to their teenager’s account.

Key Highlights

• OpenAI launches ChatGPT for Teens with enhanced safety features for users aged 13 to 17.
• Parents can set study hours and quiet hours for their teenager’s ChatGPT account.
• ChatGPT for Teens includes study mode, learning prompts, quizzes, and homework reminders.
• Stronger protections restrict content on self-harm, violence, and explicit topics for teen users.

Key Differences in ChatGPT for Teens

ChatGPT for Teens features stronger protections than the standard version. OpenAI has implemented stricter filters around topics such as self-harm, eating disorders, violence, dangerous activities, and sexually explicit or graphic content. The chatbot is programmed to avoid using romantic language or terms of endearment with teens. It is also more strongly instructed not to suggest it has feelings, consciousness, or emotions.

OpenAI’s adjustments follow previous lawsuits. In June, the US state of Florida sued OpenAI after ChatGPT allegedly provided harmful information to children, including guidance on self-harm and information for school shooters. Parents have also accused the chatbot of encouraging harmful behavior in teens. These incidents have led OpenAI to focus on safety and responsible use for younger users.

Study Mode and Parental Controls

ChatGPT for Teens is designed to promote learning rather than simply providing answers. The service includes a Study Mode, learning-focused starter prompts, quizzes when available, and homework reminders. These features encourage teens to work through assignments step by step instead of taking shortcuts. Parents or guardians with linked accounts can set Study Hours, making new chats start in Study Mode by default during those times. Quiet Hours can also be set to block access to ChatGPT during scheduled periods.

Teen users will see more reminders aimed at balanced use. For example, the chatbot prompts users to take breaks if they have been active for 90 minutes within a three-hour window. It also reminds users that they are interacting with AI. Before uploading potentially private or sensitive images, users receive warnings to protect their privacy.

OpenAI states that the ChatGPT for Teens experience will automatically apply to users who indicate they are under 18 at sign-up. It will also apply to users whom OpenAI’s age-prediction system estimates are under 18. These measures are intended to ensure that younger users receive the appropriate safeguards.

Teen AI Usage Trends

Teen use of AI chatbots is already common. A Pew Research Center study published in December found that nearly one third of teens use AI chatbots daily. ChatGPT was identified as the most widely used chatbot among this age group. OpenAI’s new offering seeks to address the growing use of AI by teens while prioritizing safety and learning.