In a move aimed at expanding access to artificial intelligence for younger users while prioritising safety, Google has announced that its Gemini AI model will now be available to children under the age of 13 who have accounts managed through Family Link. This significant update, rolling out gradually, allows children to explore the capabilities of Gemini for various purposes, including homework assistance, creative writing, and general inquiries, all under the watchful eye of their parents.
Google’s Family Link service, already a robust platform for parental controls across various Google services like YouTube and the Play Store, will now serve as the gateway for children to interact with Gemini. Parents will receive notifications when their child first accesses the AI and will have comprehensive tools within the Family Link app to manage their child’s Gemini settings. This includes the ability to turn Gemini access on or off entirely, ensuring parents retain full control over their child’s interaction with the technology.
The company has emphasised its commitment to creating a safe environment for young users. According to Google, data from children’s interactions with Gemini will not be used to train the AI models, addressing key privacy concerns. Furthermore, specific guardrails have been implemented to filter inappropriate content and prevent the generation of unsafe responses for younger users. Despite these measures, Google acknowledges that no filtering system is perfect and advises parents to actively engage with their children about their AI interactions.
To promote responsible use, Google encourages parents to teach their children critical thinking skills when interacting with Gemini. This includes explaining that Gemini is not a human, can sometimes make mistakes, and that children should always double-check the information it provides. Additionally, children should be cautioned against sharing any sensitive or personal information with the AI.
The integration of Gemini with Family Link provides a layered approach to safety. Parents can monitor their child’s activity, set usage limits, and review their interaction history within the Family Link app. This level of oversight aims to balance the educational and creative potential of AI with the necessary safeguards for young users navigating this evolving technology.
While the availability of Gemini for supervised accounts is being rolled out gradually and may not be immediately accessible to all users under 13 in every region, this announcement is a significant step in making advanced AI tools available to a younger demographic under responsible parental guidance.
As AI continues to become more integrated into daily life, providing children with age-appropriate and safe access, coupled with education on its responsible use, will be crucial in preparing them for the future. Parents are encouraged to explore the Family Link settings to manage their child’s access to Gemini and engage in open conversations about its benefits and limitations.
