Google Developing Kid-Friendly Gemini AI With Built-In Safeguards
- tech360.tv
- 21 hours ago
- 2 min read
Google is preparing to launch a child-specific version of its Gemini AI assistant, aimed at users under 13, as it phases out the original Google Assistant.
The move comes amid growing concerns about children relying on AI chatbots for advice instead of turning to parents or trusted adults. Dame Rachel de Souza, Children's Commissioner for England, warned that children may miss out on the "joy of childhood" if they increasingly turn to tools like ChatGPT for answers.
Google’s upcoming “Gemini for Kids” is designed to offer a safer, more controlled AI experience. The company already allows parents to restrict access to the original Google Assistant, but with its replacement by Gemini, similar protections will be necessary for younger users.
Gemini differs significantly from its predecessor, functioning more like a human conversation partner than a pre-programmed tool. This raises the risk of misinformation and inappropriate content, prompting Google to introduce additional safeguards.
Proposed updates to the Google app on Android include a clear warning for children: “Gemini isn’t human and can make mistakes, including about people, so double-check it.”
The warning highlights a key concern—whether children have the critical thinking skills to evaluate AI-generated responses.
Details of the “Gemini for Kid Users” feature were uncovered by Android app specialist AssembleDebug in collaboration with Android Authority. Inactive code in the latest Google app version includes prompts such as:
“Switch to Gemini from Google Assistant”
“Create stories, ask questions, get homework help, and more”
“Google Terms apply. Google will process your data as described in the Google Privacy Policy and the Gemini Apps Privacy Notice”
The child-friendly version of Gemini has not yet been released to the public. However, integrating it with Google’s existing parental controls could give it an edge over competitors like ChatGPT, which currently lacks similar features.
As AI becomes more embedded in daily life, experts suggest that shielding children from it entirely may not be realistic. Google’s approach may offer a more responsible path forward.
Google is developing a child-specific version of its Gemini AI assistant
The update includes warnings and parental controls for safer use
Gemini will replace the original Google Assistant across devices
Source: FORBES