SAN FRANCISCO, California: OpenAI launched a version of ChatGPT designed for minors on August 18, adding parental controls and stronger security features as online platforms face scrutiny over the risks associated with AI chatbots.

The new "ChatGPT for Teens" mode will restrict conversations involving high-risk topics such as self-harm, violence and eating disorders. It will also provide educational tools intended to help students learn rather than simply giving them answers, OpenAI said in a blog post.

The mode will automatically activate when a user is estimated to be under 18 or identifies their age as between 13 and 17. Parents will be able to set "Quiet Hours," manage certain settings and receive notifications when teenagers discuss sensitive topics.

The launch comes as technology companies strengthen protections for younger users amid legal challenges and evidence of harm to their mental health. Meta has also added protections for teenagers on its platforms, while a growing number of countries have pushed to ban social media use among teenagers over concerns about harm.

OpenAI already faces multiple lawsuits alleging that ChatGPT harmed children. Chatbots capable of conversing like humans are also increasingly being used as confidants offering emotional support.

Experts have warned of the dangers of relying on automation for mental health advice, while families whose loved ones allegedly died following chatbot interactions have criticized a lack of safeguards. Growing use of AI by students for assignments has also raised concerns about its impact on learning.

"We believe AI should expand educational opportunity, which is why we designed ChatGPT for Teens to support moments outside the classroom when help is not always available," OpenAI said.

The teen version includes educational features such as a study mode for guided learning, homework reminders, quizzes and visualizations.

The Pew Research Center found earlier this year that searching for information and getting homework help were the most common ways U.S. teenagers used AI, followed by fun and entertainment.

OpenAI requires users to be at least 13 years old or the minimum age required in their country.

The company said it will use a combination of self-reported age, behavioral and account signals, as well as verification, to estimate a user's age. When it is uncertain about a user's age, OpenAI said it will default to the safer setting.