OpenAI rolled out ChatGPT for Teens on August 18, 2026, introducing a version of its chatbot specifically designed for users aged 13 to 17 with enhanced safety and learning features [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. The new mode automatically applies to registered users under 18 and those identified as minors through usage patterns or account age, so no new account is needed, OpenAI said. "If we predict you're under 18, or you've told us so, this becomes your default experience," said Lauren Jonas, OpenAI's head of youth and families [5].
Key safety updates block or reduce content related to self-harm, suicide, eating disorders, violence, dangerous activities, and graphic sexual material. ChatGPT for Teens also prevents engagement in romantic or sexual roleplay and stops suggesting personal feelings or implying consciousness to better protect young users [1, 2, 3, 6]. Parents can link their accounts to their teens' profiles to receive safety alerts for high-risk situations such as signs of eating disorders or self-harm. However, they do not have access to full chat logs unless serious concerns are reviewed by humans [1, 2, 3, 6].
Other parental controls include the ability to set "quiet hours" when ChatGPT cannot be used, block viral challenge content, and control activation of Study Mode, which offers step-by-step guided questions instead of direct answers. OpenAI said Study Mode has shown positive results in randomized controlled trials. "We want to treat teens like teens, which means...showing up with the right developmental stage," explained Ann O'Leary, VP of Global Policy at OpenAI [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6].
Certain features like voice mode are disabled under the teen settings [2, 6].
OpenAI faces legal and regulatory pressure over chatbot risks to youth mental health, including wrongful death lawsuits from parents of teens like 16-year-old Adam Raine and an inquiry by the US Federal Trade Commission into AI companions for children and teens [2, 4, 6]. The company said the launch aims to address concerns about ChatGPT's impact on teen mental health and academic integrity [1, 2, 4, 5].
More than 70% of US teens reportedly use AI chatbots for companionship, underscoring the demand for safer, age-appropriate AI experiences [3]. ChatGPT for Teens is available globally starting today, with ongoing monitoring and updates planned.
