OpenAI has started a new age prediction feature in ChatGPT. This feature helps the system guess whether a user is likely under 18 years old. The goal is to make ChatGPT safer for younger people and to limit sensitive or adult content for children.
Why Is This New Feature Being Added?
OpenAI wants to protect young users from seeing harmful or inappropriate content. If the age prediction thinks a user is under 18, ChatGPT will automatically add extra safety protections. These protections help block content that may be harmful, like graphic violence, self-harm topics, or certain risky online trends.
The company says this is part of a broader effort to create a safer place for teens and follows earlier teen safety policies.
How Does the System Guess Your Age?
The age prediction model does not just ask for your birthdate. Instead, it looks at multiple signals, including:
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How long the account has existed
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The times of day the account is most active
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Patterns in how the account is used
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Age you may have already told ChatGPT
If the system thinks the account probably belongs to someone under 18, it will automatically give that account the safety restrictions.
What Happens If ChatGPT Gets It Wrong?
OpenAI knows the system may make mistakes. If someone is mistakenly treated as under 18, they can verify their age to restore full access. This is done by submitting a selfie through Persona, a secure identity verification service.
Where Is This Feature Being Launched?
The age prediction feature is being launched globally. In some areas like the European Union, it will arrive in the coming weeks to follow local rules.
Future Plans
This feature is also part of preparing ChatGPT for a future “adult mode”, where verified adults will be able to see mature content if they choose. OpenAI is planning to introduce this adult mode early in 2026.