OpenAI has published a policy statement arguing that teenagers should have access to AI tools for learning as long as there are age-appropriate safeguards, parental controls and other protections.
“Teens are the first generation growing up with AI, and this technology will heavily shape their future. Today, nearly 9 in 10 teens on ChatGPT use it for learning, information, skill-building, or productivity in a single week. This is why we believe it’s critical for teens to have access to AI,” the AI startup said in a blog post.
“Keeping teens from using it until adulthood would be like asking a previous generation to avoid the internet or search engines until they turned 18, leaving them less prepared to use one of the defining technologies of their time. But access must be paired with protections designed specifically for teens.”
The message comes as governments, schools and technology companies debate whether generative AI should be restricted for minors or integrated into education and daily life.
OpenAI said default protections for teens should be strengthened, such as using tools for age prediction, expanding parental controls and creating other resources for families to use.
It built “Study Mode” for ChatGPT , which OpenAI said encourages critical thinking, engagement and deeper understanding. When enabled, every chat will be guided for schoolwork and study. Teens are also reminded to take breaks if they spend too much time with ChatGPT.