Meta pauses teen access to AI characters ahead of new version

Core Viewpoint - Meta is pausing teens' access to its AI characters globally across all its apps to develop an updated version that includes enhanced parental controls and age-appropriate content [1][5][6] Group 1: Company Actions - Meta is not abandoning its AI character efforts but is instead focusing on creating a new version tailored for teens [1][2] - The company has been implementing parental control features on its platforms, allowing parents to monitor and restrict their teens' interactions with AI characters [4][6] - The new AI characters will provide age-appropriate responses and focus on safe topics such as education, sports, and hobbies [6] Group 2: Regulatory Context - The decision to pause access to AI characters comes just before a trial in New Mexico, where Meta faces accusations of failing to protect children from exploitation on its apps [2][7] - Meta is under scrutiny from regulators regarding its impact on teen mental health and social media addiction, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg expected to testify in an upcoming trial [7] Group 3: Industry Trends - Other AI companies are also modifying their offerings for teens in response to lawsuits related to self-harm, indicating a broader industry trend towards increased safety measures for younger users [8]