Roblox Is Locking Down Chat For Kids - Part Of A Bigger Cleanup? - Roblox (NYSE:RBLX)

Core Viewpoint - Roblox Corporation is implementing age-based chat controls to enhance safety for its young user base and ensure age-appropriate interactions on its platform [1] Group 1: New Rules and Implementation - The company will enforce age-check requirements starting in early December in Australia, New Zealand, and the Netherlands, with further expansion to other regions in January [3] - Roblox has opened its voluntary age estimation system to all users globally [2] Group 2: Age Group Classification - The new system uses facial age estimation, categorizing users into age bands: U9, 9–12, 13–15, 16–17, 18–20, or 21+ based on a facial scan [4] - Chat permissions will be determined by these age groups [4] Group 3: Safety Measures for Younger Users - For children under nine, in-experience chat will be set to "off" by default unless a parent completes an age check [5] - Children under 13 will have chat limitations outside gameplay areas, with parents able to manage their children's accounts and update birthdates post-verification [5] Group 4: Privacy and Safety Concerns - Roblox aims to provide a safe and positive experience, with industry experts acknowledging the proactive nature of the age estimation system [6] - The company ensures that facial images and videos are deleted immediately after age analysis [6] Group 5: Broader Safety Initiatives - Since January 2025, Roblox has launched over 145 safety initiatives, including AI monitoring, mature content restrictions, and enhanced parental controls [8] - A new Safety Center has been introduced to provide guidance for parents and caregivers [8]