OpenAI has announced the launch of ChatGPT for Teens, adding age-appropriate protections and learning guidance features to address controversies surrounding AI chatbots, including issues related to adolescent mental health and educational cheating.
In terms of education, ChatGPT for Teens introduces a "Learning Mode," which helps teenagers understand study materials through guiding questions and step-by-step instructions. When the system detects that a user may be trying to use AI to complete homework, it will pop up a reminder and guide them to switch to Learning Mode. Additionally, the product will support quizzes, visual learning, and allow parents or guardians to set default rules for enabling Learning Mode.
In terms of safety, ChatGPT for Teens will default to age-appropriate protection, reducing adolescents' exposure to harmful or inappropriate content. These measures are based on OpenAI's "Under 18 Users Policy" and reference developmental science and expert guidance. Parents can also manage settings through family tools, receive safety notifications, and set quiet times.
This update comes amid rising debates about AI safety. Since its launch at the end of 2022, ChatGPT has reached 900 million weekly users. OpenAI also announced a collaboration with CodeAI to help teenagers understand AI principles and how to question and use AI, and has already launched a ChatGPT Teacher Edition to provide schools with institutional AI access and support.
