Meta is taking a big step to protect teens online by introducing new parental controls for AI companions. With over half of teens now regularly using AI chatbots and companions, Meta announced on Tuesday that it will roll out these new features starting early next year.
PG-13 Content Restrictions
Teen accounts on Instagram will automatically have PG-13 content restrictions set as the default. This important change also extends to AI chat interactions on the platform. The move comes as concerns grow about teen mental health and the influence of AI-driven conversations on young users. 
Why These Controls Matter
Meta’s decision aims to give parents more control and peace of mind, ensuring that their children only interact with age-appropriate content and AI chatbots. The company emphasizes that these changes will help keep young users safe as AI companions become a bigger part of their digital lives.
This update highlights Meta’s commitment to prioritizing teen safety while balancing innovation with responsibility. As AI chatbots become more popular among Gen Z, these new tools will play a crucial role in shaping a safer online experience for families.
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Meta moves to add parental controls for AI companions