Highly appreciated by students, generative artificial intelligence offers numerous possibilities and primarily targets an adult audience. Indeed, chatbots like ChatGPT or Gemini are – officially – not designed for use by children or teenagers. This could change very quickly since Google is currently working on a version adapted to young users. Its name? Gemini for Kids, as we learn from Android Authority.
The site has searched into the Gemini app code and discovered that the American giant plans to release a specific version of its AI. This version for "child users" would include tailored features such as homework help and story creation, as well as answering questions. As it stands, all of these features are already available in the classic version of Gemini, but Android's new default assistant does not offer any specific protections. The children's version reportedly includes enhanced content filters that censor certain content and provide additional parental controls.
For now, Gemini already offers "safety barriers for young users," which Google details on its site. These protections help prevent potentially harmful content from appearing in Gemini's responses. The company adds: "For teens, we apply even stricter content policies and default protections to help prevent age-inappropriate content, such as content related to to illegal or age-restricted substances..
AI for children, a sensitive subject
It is not yet known how Google will integrate this version for children, but the Californian group already has some experience. "Kids" variants for Android or YouTube exist, and it is not surprising to see Gemini also take this turn. The project reflects Google's commitment to offering tools adapted to families (Family Link, Google Wallet for children, etc.) and to integrating AI into education. In this area, the use of AI is divisive due to its propensity to provide a solution without explanation and to invent sources. It is also used for cheating.
In addition to this bad reputation, Google will have to comply with government regulations regarding the collection of personal data. In 2023, UNESCO recommended an age limit of 13 for the use of AI tools in classrooms, and called for specific training for teachers on this subject. Gemini's competitor, OpenAI's ChatGPT, also states that you must be at least 13 years old (or the minimum age required in your country) to use its service. "If you are under 18, you must obtain the permission of your parent or legal guardian to use the Services and ask them to read these Terms with you," adds the firm behind ChatGPT.
Note that it is already possible to access a GPT for a child via the personalized versions of ChatGPT. It presents itself as "specially adapted for talking with children.". And to add: "I don't replace the adults around you, like your parents or your teacher, but I am here to accompany you, encourage you, and help you understand better.".
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