OpenAI Adds Automatic Age Detection to Place Under-18 ChatGPT Users into Teen Mode

OpenAI has announced an automated age prediction system that automatically places ChatGPT users estimated to be under 18 into a restricted teen mode. This mode limits exposure to sensitive topics such as violence, sexual content, romantic roleplay, and unhealthy body image content. As generative AI tools become widespread among younger demographics, platforms face growing pressure from regulators and parents to enforce stronger safety safeguards. This approach attempts to protect minors using non-intrusive behavioral signals without requiring upfront identity verification for every user. The age estimation model analyzes usage signals such as prompt topics, active usage hours, account activity frequency, and account age, overriding self-reported birthdates if flagged. Users who are incorrectly categorized as teens can restore adult access by verifying their age through third-party identity service Persona using a live selfie or government-issued ID.