Google is launching a new AI platform to determine the actual age of YouTube users, addressing the trend of access to age-restricted content by deeming their birthdates as other than their own. Instead of capturing your age in the model, the AI will now examine your behavior on the site. Google, in stating this initiative, wants to ensure children are safe online through the accurate recognition of underage users.
YouTube’s AI will review what videos you are watching and how long you spend watching those videos in conjunction with your overall activity on the platform and the history of your account. With these signals, YouTube will take its best guess if you are under or over the age of 18, if the algorithm believes you are likely underage, it could impose automatic restrictions on the account.
The account would simply be limited by what is stated as a result of the restrictions, even if your profile says you are 18+. Restricted use will include not having access to the certain categories of videos like dating or extreme workouts, or restricting the account from being able to see personalized ads or live chats, and blocking the ability to comment on videos. This could be a significant adjustment to the larger experience for those users who were flagged unjustifiably.
If the AI accidentally flags your account, YouTube will ask you to verify your real age. You are able to do this by uploading an official Identification, a credit card, or taking a selfie. Until your actual age is verified, there will be restrictions on certain videos and features in your account.
YouTube will test this feature to a handful of users in the United States. If the testing experience works and it works successfully, Google will role the system out to more countries, globally. They want to stop children from accessing inappropriate content and ensure safety across the platform.
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Conclusion: Big Changes for YouTube Users We noted earlier that this new AI based change could impact millions of users that recorded fake birthdays. If you use YouTube on a regular basis expect to start experiencing some adjustments when the AI questions your age. Google wants to increase safety, privacy, and a customized experience for its users using smart technology like this.