Google launches AI-powered age verification feature to protect underage users on web

Google, earlier this year in February, started testing a new Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered age-verification feature to auto-detect teenagers and younger users online.

Now, the search engine giant has begun rolling out the new auto-detect age verification feature in select markets, including the US.

"We’ll closely monitor this before we roll it out more widely. These measures, which we’ve already implemented in select markets where it’s worked well, are designed to recognize users who are either over or under 18 so that we can provide more age-appropriate experiences for those younger than 18," said Mindy Brooks, vice president, Google Kids and Families, Google.

How does Google's AI feature estimate the age of a user?

Google is using a mix of Artificial Intelligence algorithms and machine learning technology to interpret a variety of signals already associated with a user's account. For instance, the types of information a user has searched for or the categories of videos they've watched on YouTube. This information helps Google AI feature to determine whether a user is likely over or under the age of 18.

Once the user is detected to be younger than 18 years of age, it will activate YouTube Digital Wellbeing tools such as reminders to take a break and go to bed.

It also turns on safeguard measures in terms of content recommendations, including limiting repetitive views of some kinds of content.

It will also disable the Timeline in Maps, deactivate personalised advertising and restrict age-sensitive ad categories.

Also, most importantly, Google will stop minors from accessing apps restricted to adults on Google Play.

However, if the Google AI feature misidentifies an adult account as a minor, the user will get the option to correct their age, including by uploading a photo of their government ID or a selfie.

As noted earlier, the new AI auto-age detection feature is being rolled out in phases to select regions in the US. Based on feedback, it will be widely released to global markets, including in India, in the near future.

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