Technology
Danish Kapoor
Danish Kapoor

Google opens Gemini to children under 13 years of age

Google is moving to a new era that will allow children under 13 years of age to access the Gemini artificial intelligence assistant on Android devices. This arrangement will be made through the parental control system Family Link, aiming to use digital tools more actively. According to the information e-mails sent by the company, children will be able to get help in their homework or listen to the story through this artificial intelligence. In this process, Google clearly states that the data of children will not be used for the training of the artificial intelligence model. However, the warning that artificial intelligence systems can make mistakes is also included in the same statement.

At the beginning of the remarkable points in the use of Gemini for children, the content may not always be suitable for the age group. Google has already informed the parents against the possibility that artificial intelligence can produce faulty or inappropriate content. For example, it is known that similar artificial intelligence systems have made serious logic mistakes in some suggestions. For example, examples are given as an example to apply glue to pizza or to calculate the number of letters in a word. Although such examples may seem fun, it can be confusing especially for young users.

Parents are advised to explain how artificial intelligence works in this process. Google emphasizes that it is important to tell children that artificial intelligence is not a person and that the conversations with him do not actually mean chatting with someone. At this point, the limitation of personal information sharing is among the basic warnings. Google clearly states that children should avoid using expressions containing emotions or special information. In this way, it is aimed to prevent possible security deficits.

Access to Gemini can be started by the child

Access to Gemini can be activated directly by the child through accounts registered under the Family Link. This means that children can communicate with artificial intelligence, regardless of their parents. However, Google says that if children use Gemini for the first time, parents will be informed immediately. Thus, parents will be able to follow their children’s interaction with artificial intelligence instantly. However, parents have the authority to close this access at any time.

Family Link is known as a parent control platform that Google has long offered. With this system, parents can restrict their children’s screen time, regulate application permits and apply content filters. The inclusion of Gemini in this structure makes it part of the general control process. On the other hand, this brings with it that artificial intelligence -based content becomes more accessible for children. This may mean the emergence of new risks.

In the special version of Gemini for children, the production of appropriate content will be prioritized. In this context, Google says that he is in cooperation with experts working in the field of education. However, some examples of similar platforms in the past show that these systems do not always work consistently. Especially Character.ai Platforms such as, there are cases that children have difficulty distinguishing artificial intelligence and people. The fact that some chat boots introduce themselves as a real person makes this more complex.

In addition, the educational potential of artificial intelligence systems cannot be ignored. Gemini is located as a tool that can facilitate children to do research, acquire information and discover new content. However, if there is no correct guidance in this process, there is a risk of encountering harmful or misleading information. Therefore, it is important that parental surveillance is not only technically, but also in the context of content. Otherwise, the interaction of the child with artificial intelligence may not develop within a healthy framework.

The opportunities offered by Gemini can benefit children in educational processes. However, it is a known fact that such systems do not work completely safe and error. Especially when it comes to users under the age of 13, the pedagogical effects of these vehicles should be carefully evaluated. In addition, increasing digital literacy is among the long -term solutions. Parents need to manage this process not only through technical limitations, but also through communication.

Google’s new step makes children’s relationship with technological tools more complex. Artificial intelligence is now about to become a part of not only adults but also children’s daily life. This imposes new responsibilities as well as new opportunities. This process should be carefully monitored especially in terms of security, privacy and pedagogical integrity. Families are expected to be active part of this equation as well as companies.

Danish Kapoor