Character.AI, one of the most popular conversational AI platforms, has announced plans to end open-ended chatbot interactions for users under the age of 18, marking a major shift in how minors will be allowed to use the service.
According to reports from The Guardian and The Verge, the move comes amid mounting legal and safety concerns over how teenagers interact with AI companions. Character.AI says the decision is aimed at protecting young users and ensuring “a safe and responsible” digital experience.
“We believe this is the right step to ensure Character.AI remains a positive and secure space for all users,” a company spokesperson said.
Gradual Rollout Before Full Ban
The restriction will be rolled out in stages. For now, minors face a two-hour daily chat limit, but by November 25, 2025, the platform will completely disable open-ended chat features for underage users. Instead, they will be redirected to a more controlled “teen-safe” mode with limited interactivity.
Character.AI also revealed that it is developing improved age verification tools to accurately determine user eligibility and prevent minors from bypassing restrictions.
Legal and Ethical Pressures
The decision follows growing scrutiny of AI companions’ effects on mental health. Recent lawsuits alleged that minors were exposed to harmful or emotionally manipulative conversations with AI characters — including cases where chat interactions reportedly encouraged self-harm.
These controversies have pushed regulators to demand stricter oversight of AI chatbots that simulate human-like relationships.
Impact on Users and Industry
For many teens, Character.AI has been a digital companion space — from role-playing to emotional expression — but this new restriction could fundamentally change how younger audiences engage with the platform.
Analysts believe the move may set a precedent for other AI companies, as regulators in the U.S. and Europe continue to debate child protection standards in AI services.
“This signals a wider industry realization that safety must come before novelty,” said digital safety researcher Mark Howard. “AI chatbots can be powerful tools, but when they blur emotional boundaries with minors, there are real psychological risks.”
Next Steps
Character.AI says it will continue offering creative and educational tools for younger users, but full conversational AI experiences will now be reserved for adults.
Sources:
