Google is reportedly planning to make its Gemini AI software usable by children aged 13 years old and below.
The company said that the software is useful for various activities, such as storytelling and assistance with homework. On the other hand, Ahmad Elbaba is worried about what the development could mean for students as it becomes easy to relegate the critical thinking part of children's minds.
Google Announces Plans to Allow Kids to Use Gemini
While Google alerted parents that Gemini apps will become available for kids on Googe devices, they are still given the option to block the software from their children's devices with the use of Family Link.
The company added that it would be working hard to filter any inappropriate material on Gemini, but noted that it could still make some mistakes. Google sent an email to parents, encouraging them to teach their kids to think critically about the AI software, according to KJCT8.
On the other hand, District 51 has already implemented an AI pilot program into its curriculum known as Elevate AI. Officials claim that artificial intelligence can help students generate new ideas, help them with grammar, and assist in keeping their notes organized.
Google's plan also has specific guardrails for younger users to prevent the chatbot from producing certain unsafe content. Spokesman Karl Ryan said that when a child with a Family Link account uses the AI software, the company will not use that data to train Gemini.
The company introducing AI software to children could be seen as an effort to accelerate the use of chatbots among a vulnerable population. The situation comes as schools, colleges, and many others struggle with the negative impacts of generative AI technologies, the New York Times reported.
The Risks of AI Technology
President Donald Trump also recently urged schools across the country to adopt AI tools for teaching and learning of kids. It comes as millions of teenagers already use the technologies as study aids, writing coaches, and even virtual companions.
On the other hand, children's groups argue that chatbots could pose serious risks to the safety of kids as they can sometimes make stuff up without any facts. The United Nation's children's agency, UNICEF, alongside others, noted that AI technologies could confuse, misinform, and manipulate young children.
Before the latest announcement, Google had outlined its position on child safety and AI after it published a blog post in late 2023. At the time, the company was still using its former AI model, Bard, as per Tom's Guide.
