Islamabad, May 8, 2025: Google has announced that its Gemini AI platform will soon be available to children under the age of 13, sparking both praise and concern from parents and child welfare organizations.
Parents recently received the upcoming rollout, which will allow children to use Gemini for activities such as homework support, asking questions, and listening to bedtime stories.
However, the move has drawn criticism from some organizations that worry about the risks of young users interacting with artificial intelligence.
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Critics highlight that AI platforms have previously struggled to maintain child-appropriate safeguard, and argue that children may not fully understand the consequences of using such technology.
Despite these concerns, others have welcomed Google’s approach to involving parents.
Taylor Barkley, Director of Public Policy at the Abundance Institute, praised the company for prioritizing parental involvement.
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‘Google should be applauded for proactively notifying parents,’ Barkley said in a statement. ‘When it comes to new technologies, parents come first.’
To ensure responsible use, Google will manage children’s access to Gemini through Family Link, its parental control system.
Family Link allows guardians to supervise screen time, adjust privacy settings, track device location, and promote safe digital habits.
As AI becomes continues to fill into daily life, Google’s decision highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing technological innovation with the safety and development needs of younger users.
