OpenAI Launches ChatGPT for Teens With New Safeguards Amid Fears Over Children’s AI Use
OpenAI has introduced ChatGPT for Teens, a version of its artificial intelligence chatbot designed for young people aged 13 to 17, with stronger safety measures intended to reduce children’s exposure to harmful or age-inappropriate content.
The launch comes as teenagers increasingly turn to AI chatbots for schoolwork, everyday questions, advice and companionship. The growing use of the technology has also raised concerns among parents, educators and child-safety advocates about how young people may interact with AI and the risks associated with prolonged or emotionally dependent use.
OpenAI said the teen-focused service includes additional protections around subjects such as suicide, self-harm and sexual or romantic conversations. The company also said its homework and study features are designed to help teenagers understand concepts rather than simply provide answers they can submit as their own work.
The company said the aim is to create an environment that recognises teenagers as a distinct age group while limiting their exposure to material that may not be appropriate for their developmental stage.
From a child safeguarding perspective, however, the introduction of stronger safeguards does not remove the need for adult guidance. Teenagers are still developing emotionally and cognitively and may be more susceptible to forming unhealthy relationships with technology or treating AI-generated responses as authoritative.
Brendan Bouffard, associate general counsel for AI and privacy at children’s advocacy organisation Fairplay, welcomed the announcement as a possible step forward but cautioned parents against assuming that the new protections make AI completely safe for teenagers.
Concerns surrounding children’s use of AI have grown in recent years, including fears about academic cheating, harmful content and emotional dependence on chatbots.
The development therefore places greater responsibility on technology companies, parents and schools to ensure that young people understand both the benefits and limitations of AI.
For child-focused advocates, safeguarding must remain central as AI becomes increasingly embedded in children’s education and everyday lives. Young people need age-appropriate technology, clear boundaries and trusted adults they can turn to when an AI interaction becomes confusing, distressing or unsafe.
