Google to Allow Children Under 13 to Access Gemini AI Through Family Link

Google has announced that it will soon make its Gemini AI applications available to children under 13 who use managed family accounts via Family Link. This move is part of Google’s broader strategy to expand the use of AI in everyday life while incorporating safeguards for younger users. Parents have been informed through email that their children will be able to use Gemini for tasks like getting help with homework or listening to stories. Importantly, Google emphasizes that children’s data will not be used to train the AI, mirroring the approach taken with its educational accounts.

However, the tech giant also warns that Gemini can still produce inaccurate or inappropriate responses, such as recommending bizarre food combinations or providing misinformation. To mitigate risks, Google encourages parents to explain to their children that the chatbot is not human and to avoid sharing personal information. Parents retain control through Family Link, including the ability to disable access, and they will be notified when their child uses Gemini for the first time.

This move raises broader concerns about the role of AI in children’s lives, especially after incidents involving other AI bots like Character.ai, where young users reportedly became confused about whether they were interacting with real people. Google appears to be taking a more cautious approach, emphasizing transparency and parental oversight.