This feature will be launched globally, although there will be a delayed introduction in the European Union to comply with local regulatory requirements, OpenAI mentioned.
Reasons for ChatGPT’s age prediction
OpenAI indicated that this initiative aims to offer teenagers an age-appropriate experience within ChatGPT. Accounts deemed to possibly belong to users under 18 will be subject to enhanced safety measures intended to reduce exposure to sensitive or harmful materials.
These precautions form part of a larger commitment to safeguarding younger users online, it added.
This decision may have been influenced by several incidents involving teenage children and young adults who died by suicide after engaging with ChatGPT.
Understanding the ChatGPT age prediction mechanism
ChatGPT does not depend on a single criterion to ascertain age but evaluates multiple account-related signals, such as usage habits, topics discussed, and the times at which the service is utilized, according to OpenAI.
The company acknowledged that the system is not perfect and that inaccuracies may result in adults being mistakenly categorized as under 18.
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Modifications for accounts belonging to users under 18
When an account is flagged as likely belonging to a minor, ChatGPT engages additional safety settings.
While users can continue to ask questions, learn, and create content, certain areas are approached with greater caution.
OpenAI stated this encompasses topics involving graphic violence, sexual or violent role play, viral challenges that may promote risky behavior, and content endorsing extreme beauty standards or unhealthy dieting.
How adults can verify their age
OpenAI clarified that age verification is not mandatory. Users aged 18 and older who want to eliminate the extra safety settings can verify their age through ChatGPT’s settings using a third-party service, Persona.
Verification may necessitate a live selfie, a government-issued ID, or both, depending on the country.
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According to OpenAI, Persona will delete any uploaded identification or selfies within seven days, and OpenAI itself will not receive these materials. The company will only obtain confirmation of age or date of birth, which will be stored securely in accordance with its privacy policy, as stated.
First Published: Jan 21, 2026 9:50 AM IST
