New Kid-First AI: Google Brings Gemini Chat to Under 13s

Google is opening its Gemini AI chatbot to children under 13 on parent-managed Android devices—marking a major step in kid-focused tech. Using Family Link controls, parents can approve or disable access, while kids gain new support for homework, stories, and more.

Parental Controls and Safety First

Kids under 13 will soon see Gemini appear on their monitored devices. Parents receive an email notification before access is enabled and can turn Gemini on or off at any time via Family Link. Google warns that AI can “make mistakes” or surface content you’d rather they not see, so it urges family discussions about safe use and not sharing personal details.

How Gemini Helps Young Learners

Once enabled, children can ask Gemini to:

• Explain homework concepts in simple terms
• Read bedtime stories or craft their own tales
• Practice spelling and math with step-by-step guidance
  These features aim to boost confidence and curiosity—letting kids explore topics at their own pace under parental oversight.

Balancing Benefits and Risks

Opening AI to younger users raises fresh concerns:

• Accuracy and Errors: AI may suggest odd or incorrect answers—like miscounting letters—so supervision is key.
• Privacy Protections: Google pledges that children’s chats won’t train future models, safeguarding young users’ data.
• Digital Wellbeing: Families should set time limits and talk about when AI help is useful—and when a human touch is better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How do parents manage their child’s AI access?
Through Google Family Link, parents get an email when Gemini becomes available, can enable or disable it, and set usage limits on their child’s Android device.

Q2: Can children’s conversations train Google’s AI?
No. Google explicitly states kids’ chat data will not be used to train or improve AI models.

Q3: What happens if Gemini gives the wrong answer?
Google advises parents to discuss AI’s limitations with their children. Encourage kids to double-check facts and treat Gemini as a helpful guide, not a final authority.

Sources The New York Times