Google to Launch Gemini AI Chatbot for Children Under 13
In a push to engage younger audiences, Google has announced it will roll out its Gemini artificial intelligence chatbot next week, specifically designed for children under 13 with parent-managed Google accounts. The company sent an email to parents, explaining that Gemini will enable children to ask questions, receive homework assistance, and create stories.
The chatbot will be available through Google’s Family Link, a service that allows parents to oversee their child’s Google activities, including setting up Gmail and YouTube access. To enroll, parents must provide personal data about their child, such as name and birth date.
To address safety concerns, Google has implemented specific restrictions to prevent the chatbot from generating inappropriate content. Karl Ryan, a Google spokesperson, assured parents that data from child users will not be utilized to train its AI system. However, this move has raised alarm among child advocacy groups, who warn that AI technologies could misinform and manipulate young children.
UNICEF has highlighted potential dangers, noting that generative AI can produce misleading content, prompting Google to advise parents to help their children critically evaluate chatbot responses. Parents will be encouraged to remind kids that Gemini is not human and to avoid sharing personal information.
Despite Google’s safety measures, the email cautioned that children might still encounter unsuitable content. The company is keenly aware of the heightened scrutiny surrounding tech products aimed at youngsters, especially after Meta’s aborted Instagram Kids initiative faced significant backlash from state attorneys general.
Under the new system, parents will receive notifications when their child first accesses Gemini and can manage the chatbot settings. Google claims its approach complies with federal children’s online privacy legislation, aiming to ensure a safer online environment for younger users.
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