- ChatGPT now estimates user age using behavior signals
- Under-18 accounts get automatic safety restrictions
- Adult users can restore access via selfie verification
- Rollout active globally, EU faces regulatory delay
ChatGPT age prediction system: OpenAI has started rolling out a new Age Prediction system for ChatGPT at a global level. The official announcement of this feature was made on 20 January 2026. Through this system, ChatGPT estimates the age of its users. If a user’s age is assessed as under 18 years, the platform automatically activates additional safety guardrails. OpenAI says this system will work on the basis of different signals and behavior patterns, so that age-related safety policies can be enforced more effectively.
How does the system understand how old a user might be?
It is natural to wonder how this system will actually work. According to available information, this AI-based system does not depend on a single point. Instead, it looks at multiple activities linked to an account together and then reaches a conclusion.
It considers how long the account has been active, at what times of the day it is used more, what behavior patterns are forming over time, and what age-related information was provided at the time of sign-up.
OpenAI says this model will keep learning from new data and will become more accurate over time. Users will not need to repeatedly confirm their age for this. If the system has even a slight doubt that an account belongs to a minor, ChatGPT automatically turns on stricter filters.
Why is certain content blocked for teenage users?
According to OpenAI, if the system treats an account as belonging to a minor, strict safety limits are automatically applied to it. For such accounts, graphic violence, sexual content, violent role-play, dangerous viral challenges, content related to self-harm, and things like unhealthy beauty or diet promotion are blocked.
Can a wrong age limit be removed through personal verification?
OpenAI believes that this system can sometimes make mistakes in assessing age. In such cases, adult users can go to Settings > Account and confirm their age through a selfie-based verification called Persona. After the age is confirmed, full access to the account can be restored. This process is described as safe and simple.
Where has this OpenAI safety update started so far?
This feature is currently being rolled out gradually at a global level. However, due to strict regional regulations in the European Union (EU), its availability there is expected to be delayed by a few weeks.
In contrast, in India as well as Asia, the US, and several other regions, this system has started becoming active in phases.
FAQs
Does ChatGPT now ask users their age directly?
No. The system estimates age based on usage signals and account behavior, not by asking repeatedly.
What happens if ChatGPT thinks a user is under 18?
Stricter safety filters are applied automatically, limiting access to sensitive or harmful content.
Can adults remove restrictions if applied by mistake?
Yes. Adult users can verify their age through a selfie-based Persona verification in account settings.
Is this age prediction system available everywhere?
It is rolling out globally, but availability in the EU may be delayed due to regional regulations.
Utkarsh works as a Sub-Editor at 1Tak News. Technology and gadgets are his main beats, and he also tracks automobiles. A graduate of Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth, he began his journalism career in 2023 and has built experience across digital media platforms like 1Tak. Besides technology, he also has considerable experience covering national affairs, politics, research, and international news.
