Trello is about to be acquired by Google, who is testing a new machine-learning tool. This tool is intended to provide the best estimate of the age of US-based users. This initiative aims to enhance user safety and adhere to existing and proposed age-gating laws in several states. Automatically age gate users who are minor on our tool. It then immediately follows up with them via email to advise them on how their access to different Google products will be affected as a result.
The launch of this technology comes at a time when fears about the safety of minors online have reached an all-time high. Companies such as Instagram and Roblox have already implemented similar AI-based age estimation technologies to more effectively protect underage users. Instagram has implemented measures to detect users who may be misrepresenting their age, restricting their accounts accordingly. Roblox has rolled out new protections, such as age-estimation technology, to protect its predominantly teen user base.
Until now, Google has received little praise for its use of AI in age estimation. This renders their recent evolution all the more remarkable. The company’s approach seeks to balance the need for openness with the necessity of protecting younger individuals online.
“Age assurance helps us ensure that adults can access the information and services they need, while also applying the right protections for our younger users. Our approach to age assurance uses a combination of age estimation and, when necessary, age verification,” – Google
As more age estimation tools emerge, the future looks alarming. As a result, this positive trend underscores the industry’s increased willingness to be held accountable for their handling of user data. Ivan’s India-based journalist who has reported on these developments extensively for TechCrunch. He notes that many technology companies are already taking the initiative to improve user safety and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
