YouTube has launched a controversial new trial in the United States, using artificial intelligence to estimate whether users are adults or minors by analysing their viewing habits.
Moving beyond the traditional method of self-reported birth dates, the platform is now examining the types of videos watched, search behaviour, and account history to assess a user's age.
Supporters see it as a move to better protect minors from harmful content, but critics warn it could open the door to invasive surveillance, misclassification, and censorship.
How the YouTube AI Age Check Works
The pilot programme, which began this week, will initially affect only a small group of logged-in US users, with potential for expansion if successful. The AI system looks at multiple signals, including viewing categories, search activity, and account longevity, to estimate age with a margin of error of around two years.
AP reported that if flagged as under 18, users are automatically subject to existing YouTube safeguards such as the removal of targeted ads, content restrictions, and screen time reminders.
Options for Adults Misidentified as Minors
Adults who believe they have been wrongly classified can verify their age by submitting a government ID, credit card, or a selfie. Watching videos without signing in will still be possible, although age-restricted content will be blocked without proof of age.
Political Pressure and International Rollout
The move comes amid mounting political pressure in the US to limit minors' access to adult content. This includes a recent Supreme Court decision to uphold a Texas law requiring stricter age verification for pornography websites. Similar AI-based systems are already in use in countries such as Australia and the UK.
Privacy Concerns and Public Backlash
The rollout has faced immediate backlash. A petition opposing the change gained over 68,000 signatures in just one day, with opponents citing fears over data security and mass surveillance. Content creators and privacy advocates, including the Electronic Frontier Foundation, have warned of the risks to sensitive personal data such as ID documents and selfies, particularly in the event of a breach.
Vulnerable groups, including LGBTQ+ and autistic users, have expressed concerns about being misclassified or having to reveal personal information to access content.
YouTube's Response
James Beser, YouTube's Director of Product Management, said the company aims to 'deliver safety protections that respect teen privacy' while keeping harmful material away from minors. Yet the debate continues over whether AI-driven age verification strikes the right balance between child protection and personal freedom in the digital age.
