This is a new system developed by Google based on machine learning to determine the age of users and enforce some restrictions on its content where necessary. The step is an extension of the company trying to safeguard younger users in all its products, such as YouTube, Maps, and the Play Store.
The system manipulates the information in a user’s Google account, including video viewing habits or search history, to determine their age. In case the system recognizes a person as being under 18, the protections will be automatically enabled by Google, and the user will be warned by email. Several modifications will be made in case of underage usage.
Individualized advertisements will be switched off, the timeline in Google Maps will be disengaged, and restrictions on age-restricted programs and adult content on the Play Store will be imposed. YouTube will also include functions to promote digital wellbeing, like notifications about taking breaks or going to bed when spending too much time on the services late at night. Google will also decrease the exposure to damaging content, such as videos that may incite body image issues.
Critically, those who believe that they have been falsely reported to be underage will have the chance to dispute the ruling by sending a selfie or picture of an ID belonging to a government agency. This option of appeal will lessen the chances of error occurrence by the AI system and offer a remedy for curbing misjudgments.
According to Google, this innovative direct shaving method of age estimation has so far seen light in selected areas with successful outcomes. The company emphasized the importance of age assurance in achieving the right balance between access and protection. It is essential to put in place appropriate measures to ensure that adults have full access, whereas younger users are protected against potentially harmful content.
Recently, other technology-based platforms such as Instagram and Roblox have embraced the acquisition of AI-equipped age-checking tools against predators. These measures conform with the increasing legal scrutiny as lawmakers in the U.S. and the UK, particularly, pass legislation aimed at making the internet more secure to deal with minors. Google has followed the trend with its newest step, and online platforms will likely employ AI to ensure safety and regulation in addition to their current usage and personalization.
