OpenAI has released a dedicated version of ChatGPT for teenagers, adding parental oversight tools and safety features as the company faces mounting legal pressure over the psychological effects of unrestricted AI interaction on minors.
The teen-specific version activates automatically when a user’s age is estimated at under 18, or when a user identifies as being between 13 and 17. In a blog post, OpenAI said the product is designed to expand access to education and position AI as a partner in active learning, particularly during hours when teachers and parents are unavailable.
On the educational side, the version includes a study mode that guides students toward reasoning through problems rather than handing them direct answers, along with homework reminders designed to prevent shortcutting, plus short quizzes and visual learning aids.
Parents can link their accounts to their children’s profiles to monitor digital activity, set “quiet hours” to restrict access during specific times, manage privacy settings, and receive real-time alerts about behaviour that may signal risk. The system also monitors for indicators associated with behavioural and health conditions, including eating disorders, notifying parents immediately if warning signs appear.
OpenAI said the initiative is intended to encourage critical thinking among young users and to steer them toward real-world support rather than reliance on AI. The launch comes as the company navigates multiple lawsuits alleging that unguarded AI interaction causes psychological and social harm to children, and ahead of its anticipated initial public offering.
