OpenAI has introduced ChatGPT for Teens, a new version of its popular chatbot specifically designed for users under 18, featuring robust built-in safety protections and educational tools like Study Mode. This launch occurs as rival Meta faces a significant trial regarding allegations of fostering addictive behaviors in young users, and while OpenAI itself navigates multiple investigations and wrongful death lawsuits concerning its product safety.
OpenAI announced on Tuesday the rollout of ChatGPT for Teens, a specialized chatbot experience tailored for users under 18. The company states this version incorporates "stronger built-in safety protections" aimed at creating a safer digital environment for younger audiences.
This initiative builds upon several features OpenAI has previously introduced, including a "Study Mode" designed to assist students with problem-solving, along with age prediction capabilities and various parental controls implemented over the past year.
Sam Altman, CEO and co-founder of OpenAI, speaks to members of the media on the Senate Subway while heading to a meeting at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, July 29, 2026.
Credit: Al Drago | Bloomberg | Getty Images
The new teen-focused ChatGPT experience is equipped with a suite of educational features, including customizable homework reminders, interactive quizzes, learning visualizations, and "Study Hours" — a setting allowing parents or teens to schedule when Study Mode is active by default. OpenAI emphasized that ChatGPT for Teens integrates age-appropriate safeguards specifically engineered to minimize exposure to content deemed developmentally inappropriate or potentially harmful.
"Teens should have the opportunity to leverage AI for learning, creativity, and exploration," OpenAI stated in an official release. "However, this access must be paired with protections that align with their developmental stage, bolster real-world connections, and encourage healthy usage habits over time."
The timing of OpenAI's release is particularly notable, coinciding with the commencement of a high-stakes trial involving rival tech giant Meta. Meta is currently facing accusations of fostering addictive behaviors among teenagers and children, a case brought by a coalition of 29 state attorneys general that could result in hundreds of billions of dollars in damages.
OpenAI itself has not been immune to scrutiny regarding its safety protocols. In June, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier initiated a lawsuit against OpenAI and its CEO, Sam Altman, alleging that the company knowingly launched an unsafe product with potential harm to users. Shortly thereafter, a coalition of state attorneys reportedly opened an investigation into the company. OpenAI previously stated its intention to "engage constructively" with these officials.
Furthermore, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) launched an inquiry in September into seven major companies, including both OpenAI and Meta, to assess the potential negative impact of their AI chatbots on children and teenagers.
Adding to its challenges, OpenAI is also contending with multiple wrongful death lawsuits. These legal actions assert that ChatGPT contributed to users experiencing harmful delusions, leading to tragic outcomes, including suicide in some instances.
If you are having suicidal thoughts or are in distress, contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
