Meta adds parental controls for AI-teen interactions

Core Points - Meta is introducing parental controls for children's interactions with AI chatbots, allowing parents to disable one-on-one chats entirely starting early next year [3][4] - The AI assistant will remain accessible to provide educational content, with age-appropriate protections in place for teens [4] - Parents will have the ability to block specific chatbots and receive insights into their children's interactions, although full chat access will not be provided [4][5] Industry Context - The changes are a response to ongoing criticism regarding the impact of Meta's platforms on children, particularly concerning AI chatbots linked to harmful outcomes [5][6] - A significant portion of teens, over 70%, have engaged with AI companions, with half using them regularly, indicating a strong market presence for AI interactions among youth [5] - Meta's announcement also includes restrictions on teen accounts on Instagram, limiting content to PG-13 standards, which will extend to AI chats as well [6][7] Reactions - Children's online advocacy groups have expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of these measures [6] - Observers suggest that these announcements may be aimed at preempting potential legislation and addressing parental concerns about content on Instagram [7]