DexertoYouTube users are reporting a sudden surge in age-related restrictions as Google’s video platform rolls out its AI age estimation system more aggressively.
Back in July, YouTube confirmed it would bring the technology to the US after initial tests in Europe. The model analyzes signals like account age, user activity, and watch history to estimate whether someone is under 18. It can also infer age based on the types of videos searched and viewed.
If flagged as underage, accounts face automatic restrictions including limited ad personalization, fewer “potentially problematic” recommendations, and access blocks on mature content.
Privacy experts have criticized the system as “creepy” and overly intrusive, but YouTube pushed ahead, assuring users that data from ID or credit card verification wouldn’t be stored for ad purposes.
YouTube expands AI age estimation tech and restricts more accounts
At first, only a small number of users reported seeing the feature in action, but that since has changed.
According to 9to5Google, there’s been a notable spike in users suddenly asked to verify their age across mobile apps and the web video player as of September 24.
The prompts notify users that their account settings have changed and require ID submission to regain access. The rollout appears broader than before, and many who hadn’t previously been affected are now locked out until they provide proof of age.
YouTube has signaled this wider enforcement for months, warning that AI checks would eventually cover more than just a “small group” of users. The system’s design also means that adults who watch youth-oriented videos could be mistakenly flagged as under 18.
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Although Google insists it won’t retain ID data for advertising, cybersecurity voices remain skeptical, warning that verification data could still be stored for other internal uses.