The technology will allow us to reduce a user’s age and to use this signal, regardless of the date of birth indicated in the account, to offer tailored experiences and protections,” said YouTube’s leadership team on their blog.
A technology based on users’ search history
Easy to use, this technology will be based on users’ search history. It should be able to interpret different signals, such as the types of videos searched for, watched, or the account’s age. If the system determines that a user is under 18, the rules for teenagers will apply automatically, to prevent minors from viewing inappropriate content, whether in terms of recommendations or advertising.
If the video history is biased, especially for parents in the scenario where they activate videos intended for their children, the user will have the option to prove that they are of legal age, for example by using a credit card or an identity document,” reassured the platform.
Australia has banned YouTube for under 16s
Like many social networks, YouTube is regularly accused of harming the health of children and adolescents. Whether it’s the time spent in front of a screen or exposure to inappropriate content. Recently, Australia has completely banned access to under 16s on Google’s video platform, in order to protect them from “predatory algorithms,” as defined by the Minister of Communication, Anika Wells.
