Character AI, the platform that allows users to create and chat with AI-powered characters, is introducing new parental supervision tools to enhance safety for its teenage users. The move comes in response to growing concerns and legal challenges over the platformโs ability to protect minors from potential risks.
The company announced on Tuesday that it will now provide parents and guardians with a weekly email summary detailing their teenโs activity on the app. This report will include insights such as the total time spent on the platform, the time dedicated to chatting with different characters, and a list of the top characters their child interacted with throughout the week.
Character AI emphasised that while parents will receive an overview of their childโs usage, they will not have direct access to specific chat logs. These updates aim to help guardians better understand how their teenagers engage with the platform while maintaining user privacy.
Prior safety measures and legal challenges
Introducing these new features follows previous efforts by Character AI to enhance safety for young users. Last year, the company implemented a separate AI model for users under 18, along with time-spent notifications and disclaimers reminding users that they interact with AI-generated characters. Additionally, the company introduced content filters to prevent minors from accessing or generating inappropriate material.
Despite these measures, Character AI has faced legal scrutiny. Earlier this year, the company filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit alleging that its platform contributed to a teenagerโs suicide. The lawsuit brought renewed attention to the responsibilities of AI platforms in ensuring user safety, particularly for younger audiences.
A step towards safer AI interactions
With the latest parental supervision tools, Character AI aims to balance user privacy and parental awareness. By providing guardians with key insights, the company hopes to foster a safer environment for teenage users while maintaining the appeal of its interactive AI experience.
As concerns around online safety and AI-generated interactions continue to grow, Character AIโs new approach may serve as a model for other tech platforms navigating the complex landscape of teen safety and digital engagement.
