Google is set to expand access to its Gemini AI chatbot to children under 13 through parent-managed accounts starting next week. This strategic initiative marks a significant shift in the AI landscape, introducing young users to artificial intelligence under strict parental supervision via Google’s Family Link controls.
The child-friendly version of Gemini introduces comprehensive safety measures and enhanced restrictions compared to its standard counterpart. Through Family Link, parents gain robust oversight capabilities, including the ability to monitor interactions, implement usage limitations, and receive notifications when children attempt inappropriate queries such as requesting homework completion or accessing gambling-related content.
Google has explicitly stated that Gemini’s youth-oriented version will focus on creative and educational endeavours, including generating songs, stories, and poems whilst offering homework assistance. Notably, the company has committed to refraining from using children’s interaction data to train its AI models, addressing privacy concerns that often surround youth-targeted digital services.
Educational institutions will maintain control through school-issued accounts via the Google Admin Console, enabling administrators to establish usage policies and oversee student engagement. This structured approach aims to integrate AI technology safely within educational frameworks whilst maintaining appropriate oversight.
In its communication to parents, Google emphasised three fundamental aspects of the service. Firstly, despite its conversational capabilities, the AI lacks human consciousness and emotions. Secondly, responses should be verified through additional sources due to accuracy limitations. Thirdly, children must be cautioned against sharing personal information through the platform.
The timing of this rollout aligns with UNESCO’s growing emphasis on implementing age restrictions for generative AI tools in education. Whilst critics highlight concerns about potential factual inaccuracies and inappropriate content, Google has adopted what it terms a “digital training wheels” approach, designed to gradually introduce younger users to AI technology.
Users can access the service through gemini.google.com and mobile applications, with parents maintaining control through Family Link-managed accounts. The system displays a clear “Gemini isn’t available for your account” message when parental restrictions are in place, ensuring transparent access management.
As artificial intelligence increasingly integrates into educational tools, this development represents a pivotal moment in youth AI interaction. Google’s approach to creating child-safe AI environments could establish precedents for industry-wide standards, particularly in areas of safety protocols and educational applications.
News Source: https://techcrunch.com/2025/05/02/google-will-soon-start-letting-kids-under-13-use-its-gemini-chatbot/
