Recently, Meta announced the use of artificial intelligence technology on the Instagram platform to predict user ages, automatically transferring any users suspected of misrepresenting their age to a youth account.
This initiative comes amid widespread public concern over the impact of social media platforms on the mental health of teenagers. Meta introduced youth accounts as early as September this year. Designed specifically for users aged 13 to 17, youth accounts include multiple restriction features, such as limiting who can contact them and what content they can see. Additionally, the account automatically blocks potentially offensive comments and message requests.
However, the effectiveness of secure youth accounts is contingent on users voluntarily using them or honestly providing their age information. Therefore, Meta has developed a proprietary software tool called the "Adult Classifier," set to be officially deployed next year. This tool aims to categorize users as either 18 years old or younger, analyzing their profiles, interactions, and follow lists to determine their age. Even a simple "Happy Birthday" message can help ascertain a user's true age.
In a 2019 study, Meta pointed out that social media applications, particularly Instagram, have a negative impact on the mental health of teenagers. A 2021 report by The Wall Street Journal revealed that Meta is aware of Instagram's adverse effects on the mental health of teenagers, especially teenage girls, with some studies suggesting the platform exacerbates body image issues for one-third of girls.
Currently, youth accounts are voluntary, resulting in many teenagers still using regular adult accounts. Meta plans to soon start transferring teenagers who have provided age information to the new accounts and introduce the "Adult Classifier" feature next year. These measures are Meta's latest response to societal concerns and mental health issues among teenagers, aiming to create a safer social environment for young users.
Key Points:
📅 Meta will use AI technology to determine Instagram user ages, automatically transferring minors to youth accounts.
🔒 Youth accounts feature multiple safety restrictions to protect users from inappropriate contacts and content.
📉 Meta is aware of the negative impact of social media on the mental health of teenagers and continues to take measures to improve user experience.
