YouTube is rolling out a groundbreaking AI-driven age verification system in the U.S. starting Wednesday, aiming to better safeguard minors from inappropriate content. The technology analyzes users' viewing patterns to estimate their age, even overriding birthdates provided during account creation. While initially limited to a small group of logged-in users, the test could expand if successful, mirroring earlier trials in other regions.
The system enforces existing YouTube safeguards for under-18 users, including restricted video recommendations, screen-time reminders, and a ban on personalized ads. Adults mistakenly flagged as minors can submit government IDs, credit cards, or selfies to regain full access. James Beser, YouTube's product management director, emphasized the platform's commitment to balancing teen privacy with safety in a blog post announcing the initiative.
This move comes amid heightened U.S. political pressure to protect children online, following a recent Supreme Court decision upholding Texas' anti-pornography law. While YouTube intensifies its verification efforts, debates continue about whether app stores like Apple's and Google's should bear more responsibility for age-gating content.
Digital rights organizations, including the Electronic Frontier Foundation, warn that such systems risk eroding privacy and free speech protections. Meanwhile, anonymous browsing on YouTube will still allow access to most content, though age-sensitive material will require verification.
