Meta will introduce new parental controls early next year, allowing parents to manage how their children interact with artificial intelligence chatbots on its platforms. The update will give parents the option to completely disable one-on-one chats with AI characters.
However, Meta’s AI assistant will remain accessible, as the company says it provides helpful information and educational opportunities. Meta added that this assistant will come with default, age-appropriate protections to ensure teen safety.
For parents who prefer not to block all AI characters, Meta will allow them to restrict specific chatbots instead. Additionally, parents will be able to view insights into their children’s interactions with AI characters, although they will not have access to full chat transcripts.
The move comes amid growing criticism of Meta over the impact of its platforms on children’s well-being. AI chatbots, in particular, have faced increasing scrutiny, with lawsuits alleging that their interactions have contributed to severe mental health issues among young users.
A recent study by Common Sense Media, a nonprofit focused on responsible digital media use, found that more than 70 per cent of teenagers have used AI companions, and about half use them regularly.
Earlier this week, Meta also announced that teen accounts on Instagram will automatically be limited to viewing PG-13 content. Teens will not be able to adjust these settings without a parent’s approval. Under these rules, teens will only see photos and videos considered appropriate for a PG-13 movie, excluding content involving sex, drugs, or dangerous behaviour.
Meta confirmed that the same PG-13 restrictions will apply to AI chats as well.
Despite these updates, several children’s online advocacy groups remain cautious. Josh Golin, executive director of the nonprofit Fairplay, said, “From my perspective, these announcements are about two things. They’re about forestalling legislation that Meta doesn’t want to see, and they’re about reassuring parents who are understandably concerned about what’s happening on Instagram.”
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