OpenAI launches Teen Safety Blueprint in India to promote responsible AI use among youth

The initiative introduces age-aware AI behaviour, privacy-protective age estimation tools and enhanced parental controls to ensure safer, more supportive interactions for users under 18 across India’s rapidly expanding AI ecosystem.

OpenAI has unveiled a new Teen Safety Blueprint in India, outlining measures designed to make artificial intelligence platforms safer for users under the age of 18. The move comes amid rising adoption of AI tools such as ChatGPT among young users across the country.

The company said the framework prioritises safety in design and functionality, aiming to create a more age-appropriate digital environment for teenagers. In developing the blueprint, OpenAI consulted policymakers, educators, child protection specialists, mental health professionals and regulatory stakeholders to address emerging concerns around youth engagement with AI technologies.

Age-aware AI and privacy safeguards

A central feature of the blueprint is what OpenAI describes as “age-aware AI behaviour.” The approach seeks to differentiate between adult and teenage users so that responses can be tailored to suit younger audiences. Instead of applying uniform interactions, the system is intended to adjust tone, guidance and content sensitivity based on age signals.

To support this, OpenAI plans to deploy privacy-focused age estimation tools that can help determine whether a user may be under 18, without requiring intrusive data collection. The company emphasised that these safeguards are designed to balance safety with user privacy.

Expanded parental controls and support measures

The blueprint also introduces new parental oversight tools. Parents will be able to link their accounts to their teenager’s AI profile, enabling them to set usage boundaries. Features include scheduling “blackout hours” to restrict access during specific times, disabling chat history functions and controlling certain interaction settings.

In addition, OpenAI will strengthen existing protective mechanisms. These include automated prompts encouraging users to take breaks during extended sessions and systems that can recognise signs of emotional distress, directing users to appropriate real-world support resources where necessary.

OpenAI said the Teen Safety Blueprint reflects its broader commitment to responsible AI deployment in India. The company has also called on other AI developers to adopt similar youth-focused protections as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into daily learning and communication environments.