Google is rolling out a new AI-powered age detection system to identify users under 18 across its platforms, starting with a small group of users in the United States. The feature, first announced in February 2025, is part of the company’s broader effort to make its services safer for minors.
According to Google, the age estimation technology will analyze the types of content a user engages with such as search queries and YouTube video views to estimate whether they are underage. If flagged, the user will be subject to the same protections as those who have voluntarily confirmed their age as under 18.
What happens if you’re flagged as underage?
If Google determines that a user is likely under 18, it will automatically apply a range of restrictions to enhance their digital safety:
- Bedtime reminders will be turned on for YouTube.
- Content recommendations will be limited to age-appropriate videos.
- Timeline in Google Maps will be disabled.
- Personalized ads will be turned off.
- Adult apps on the Play Store will be blocked.
Google assures users that this feature is being rolled out gradually and will initially affect only a small set of users. However, the company plans to expand the rollout in the coming months.
What if Google gets it wrong?
In cases of incorrect age detection, users will have the option to verify their age by submitting a government-issued ID or a selfie. This manual verification helps ensure that adults aren’t wrongly restricted by the system.
Why now?
This move comes as global pressure increases on tech companies to improve online safety for children. In the US, lawmakers continue to push for stricter age checks, while the UK recently implemented age verification requirements across multiple platforms including Reddit, Discord, Bluesky, and Spotify.