Parental controls are added by Meta for AI-teen interactions

Beginning early next year, Meta will implement parental controls for children’s interactions with AI chatbots. These restrictions will include the option to completely disable one-on-one conversations with AI characters.

However, Meta’s AI assistant will «remain available to offer helpful information and educational opportunities, with default, age-appropriate protections in place to help keep teens safe,» meaning parents won’t be able to turn it off.

Parents will also have the option to restrict particular chatbots if they do not wish to disable all conversations with AI characters. Additionally, Meta stated on Friday that while parents won’t have access to the entire conversations, they will be able to obtain «insights» about the topics their children are discussing with AI characters.

The adjustments are made as the social media behemoth continues to be criticized for the dangers its platforms do to minors. AI chatbots are increasingly coming under fire for their interactions with kids, which some cases say have led to suicide.

However, according to a recent study by Common Sense Media, a nonprofit that researches and promotes responsible use of screens and digital media, over 70% of teenagers have used AI companions, and half use them frequently.