YouTube will start using neural networks to identify teens and restrict their access to content

The trend to increase control over access to information and content not intended for minors is gaining momentum.

Google joins this trend and launches automatic control over the age of users on the video hosting YouTube.

Here's What We Know

YouTube will start using artificial intelligence to automatically identify users under 18 from 13 August 2025.

The algorithm will study the account activity and the age that is specified during registration. If the system detects an underage user, it will automatically restrict their access to content labelled 18+, disable targeted advertising, add notifications about the need to take breaks, and limit the use of comments and access to certain topics.

If the AI makes a mistake and restricts an adult user's account, they will be able to appeal the decision by providing selfies, passport or bank card to prove their age.

YouTube warns content creators that their audience statistics may change, leading to lower monetisation as no ads will be shown to minors.

For now, the AI controller will only start in the US, but Google plans to launch it in other regions over time.

Source: Google