YouTube’s new AI-powered age verification system is now active in the United States, and it’s causing quite a stir. The platform has introduced an ‘age-estimation model’ designed to determine if a user is under 18, regardless of what their profile says. If the AI deems you to be underage-using factors like account activity and longevity-it will automatically apply certain restrictions to your account. These restrictions, which are similar to those already in place for minors, include:
- Displaying only non-personalized ads
- Enabling digital wellbeing tools by default (such as reminders to take breaks and go to bed)
- Warning about privacy when uploading videos or commenting publicly
- Limiting recommendations of videos that could be harmful if viewed repetitively
- Blocking age-restricted content (18+ videos) unless verified by the user
While these restrictions are meant to protect younger users, the system has sparked concerns. Some argue that being flagged as underage by an AI system could lead to privacy risks, such as identity theft, especially if users are required to submit government IDs or selfies for verification. Others fear that the technology will result in a ‘big brother’ scenario, where online experiences are unnecessarily restricted based on a computer’s assumptions.
James Beser, senior director of product management for YouTube’s youth products, emphasized that the technology would ensure teens are treated as teens and adults as adults. He also mentioned that users will have the option to verify their age if they believe the AI’s assessment is wrong. However, the program is initially limited to a small group of US users, with plans to expand based on feedback.
For many, the move feels like another step toward an increasingly controlled internet, where even personal content preferences are scrutinized by AI. Some people are already coming up with creative ways to sidestep the system, like using altered photos for verification or simply refusing to participate in the age checks. Whatever the outcome, this development raises important questions about privacy, security, and the growing role of AI in moderating digital experiences.