OPENAI LAUNCHES CHATGPT MODE WITH SAFETY FEATURES FOR TEENS

OpenAI is rolling out a dedicated ChatGPT mode for teenagers that consolidates existing safeguards alongside new features designed to encourage educational use. The mode, called ChatGPT for Teens, automatically applies to users who identify themselves as aged between 13 and 17, as well as those the system estimates to be under 18. Users under 13 are not permitted to access the platform. The launch comes as other technology platforms implement age checks and teen-specific protections in response to growing public scrutiny over how artificial intelligence tools affect younger users.

The teen mode applies default protections including restrictions on prohibited or sensitive content such as graphic violence, depictions of self-harm, and sexual or romantic roleplay. The system surfaces warnings and safety information around topics including eating disorders. Parents can set quiet hours, receive notifications about safety alerts, and link their accounts to set Study Hours, which automatically enable Study Mode during designated times. OpenAI has also introduced features to discourage what it describes as shortcutting assignments, with the system recognising when a teen appears to be attempting to bypass homework and redirecting them to Study Mode. The launch follows a lawsuit filed against OpenAI last September alleging the platform contributed to the death of a 16-year-old user.

Study Mode, which uses a Socratic approach to guide users toward solutions rather than providing direct answers, has been in field testing through randomised controlled trials. According to Lauren Jonas, OpenAI's head of youth and families, those trials showed positive gains in academic performance, though specific figures were not disclosed. Many of the protections described represent consolidations of existing safeguards rather than entirely new additions. No account creation or changes are required; teenagers will be automatically enrolled in the experience.