OpenAI has started a global rollout of an age prediction system aimed at identifying whether ChatGPT users are minors, as part of broader efforts to regulate access based on age.
The company said the system will help manage how different age groups interact with its AI tools, especially as new content features are planned.
How the Age Prediction System Works
According to OpenAI, the tool evaluates a combination of behavioral and account-level signals, including:
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Length of time an account has existed
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Typical login and activity times
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Long-term usage behavior
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The age provided by the user during signup
These indicators are used together to estimate whether a user is likely under the minimum age requirement.
What Happens If an Account Is Flagged
If the system classifies an account as belonging to a minor, access to certain features may be restricted.
Users who believe they were incorrectly flagged will be required to verify their age by submitting a selfie through Persona, a third-party age verification service, in order to regain full access.
OpenAI said this process is meant to balance safety concerns with the risk of misclassification.
Safety Pressure on AI Platforms Continues to Grow
AI companies have increasingly faced criticism for introducing powerful tools before fully implementing safety protections, especially for young users.
OpenAI previously came under scrutiny after being named in a wrongful death lawsuit involving a teenager, which reportedly involved ChatGPT use during a mental health crisis.
Following the case, the company began exploring automatic protections for minors and established a mental health advisory council to guide policy decisions.
Upcoming “Adult Mode” Raises New Questions
The age detection rollout comes as OpenAI prepares to launch an “adult mode” for ChatGPT, which would allow access to content considered not safe for work (NSFW).
While OpenAI has not confirmed a launch timeline, the feature is expected to require stricter age enforcement.
However, experts note that other platforms, including gaming and social networks, have struggled to prevent minors from bypassing age checks, raising doubts about whether automated systems alone can fully block underage access.
Effectiveness of Enforcement Still Unclear
OpenAI has not shared detailed information about:
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How frequently age assessments will be updated
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Whether manual reviews will be expanded
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What penalties apply to repeated violations
Observers say the success of the system will depend on how aggressively enforcement is applied and how easily users can appeal incorrect classifications.
Part of a Broader Shift Toward Age-Based AI Controls
The move reflects a growing industry trend toward age-sensitive AI regulation, as governments and child safety advocates push tech companies to take stronger responsibility for protecting young users.
With new adult-oriented features planned, OpenAI’s age verification tools are expected to play a central role in shaping how ChatGPT is used across different age groups.
