YouTube has announced plans to test a new artificial intelligence system designed to verify users’ ages, marking a significant shift in how the platform manages access to age-restricted content. The AI tool will analyze users’ facial features to estimate their age, requiring them to perform a brief video scan using their device’s camera. This technology aims to prevent underage users from accessing mature content while providing a less intrusive alternative to traditional verification methods like credit card or ID submissions. The testing will initially roll out in select regions, focusing on ensuring both effectiveness and user privacy. YouTube emphasizes that the facial scan data will be deleted immediately after age estimation and won’t be used for any other purposes. The platform is implementing this system in response to growing regulatory pressure worldwide to protect minors online. The AI tool, developed in partnership with Yoti, a digital identity verification company, claims 98.9% accuracy for users aged 13-17. This initiative represents part of YouTube’s broader efforts to balance content accessibility with user safety, particularly for younger audiences. The platform states that users will still have access to traditional verification methods if they prefer not to use the AI system. This development signals a broader trend in social media platforms adopting AI-driven solutions for age verification and content moderation.