On August 13, 2025, YouTube introduced a new artificial intelligence system in the United States to check if viewers are adults or minors by studying the types of videos they watch. The system was first tested on a small group of users and could be used across the country if results are the same as in other places. It worked only for logged-in accounts and checked ages even if the birth date in the profile was different. YouTube, owned by Google for almost twenty years, used the system to add more protective measures for viewers under 18. These measures included reminders to rest from screen time, privacy alerts, and blocking some video suggestions. Personalized ads were also stopped to limit unsuitable marketing and content.

If a viewer was placed in the wrong age group, verification could be done through a government-issued ID, a credit card, or a selfie. Experts said the aim was to make safety stronger while keeping user privacy. Some groups, however, shared concerns about risks to personal data and freedom of expression. Despite debates, the system was seen as a notable step in online safety, creating a more efficient way to protect younger audiences and balance security with privacy in the digital space.