OpenAI Launches ‘ChatGPT for Teens’ Service for Ages 13 to 17

OpenAI has begun offering the ‘ChatGPT for Teens’ service globally starting August 18, designed specifically for teenagers aged 13 to 17. This service includes features such as ‘Study Mode,’ ‘Quizzes,’ ‘Learning Visualizations,’ and ‘Study Hours,’ providing step-by-step assistance rather than direct answers for homework. Additionally, OpenAI has implemented strict controls on content related to suicide, violence, sexual, and highly violent material, along with a ‘Parental Control’ feature for guardians.

The service aims to support teens in their studies, promote critical thinking, and teach safe and responsible AI use. Within ‘ChatGPT for Teens,’ the ‘Study Mode’ allows students to ask questions and solve problems methodically, reducing the tendency to seek direct answers. If a student attempts to quickly complete homework by requesting direct answers, the ‘Responsible Homework Reminder’ feature redirects them back to ‘Study Mode.’

For practice, teens can utilize ‘Quizzes,’ and to understand complex subjects, they have access to ‘Learning Visualizations.’ The ‘Study Hours’ feature allows teens or their guardians to set specific study times, after which new conversations automatically resume in ‘Study Mode.’ The service is built with enhanced safety features to keep teenagers protected from harmful content.

Guardians can link their accounts with their teen’s account to use ‘Parental Control,’ enabling them to designate ‘Quiet Hours’—times when service use is paused—manage various settings, and receive limited ‘Safety Notifications’ if serious safety concerns arise. However, parents cannot read or monitor all of their teen’s conversations. OpenAI has also partnered with CodeAI to educate teenagers not only on how to use AI responsibly but also on how AI functions, its potential errors, and how to question its responses effectively.