YouTube to Guess Age via Watch History, Not by Birthdate: Report
In a move that is likely to raise some eyebrows, YouTube is reportedly planning to use an AI tool to guess the age of its users based on their watch history, rather than relying on the date of birth they provide. This new system is designed to detect underage users, but it has also raised concerns about privacy and accuracy.
According to a recent report, the new AI tool will scan a user’s viewing history to determine their age, rather than relying on the date of birth they enter when creating an account. This means that YouTube will be able to make an educated guess about a user’s age based on the type of content they watch, rather than relying on self-reported information.
The report suggests that this new system is designed to detect underage users who may be attempting to access age-restricted content. YouTube has faced criticism in the past for failing to effectively prevent minors from accessing mature content, and this new system is likely an attempt to address this issue.
However, the new system has also raised concerns about privacy and accuracy. Users who are incorrectly identified as underage will be required to submit government-issued identification or a selfie to prove their age. This has raised concerns about the potential for identity theft and the invasion of privacy.
The new system is likely to be rolled out in the coming weeks and months, although YouTube has not yet officially confirmed the details of the plan. The company has faced criticism in the past for its handling of user data, and this new system is likely to be closely scrutinized by privacy advocates and regulators.
The move is likely to be seen as a response to the growing concerns about online privacy and the use of AI in decision-making. As AI becomes increasingly prevalent in our daily lives, there is a growing need for transparency and accountability in the way it is used.
YouTube has faced criticism in the past for its handling of user data, and this new system is likely to be closely scrutinized by privacy advocates and regulators. The company has a history of using AI to determine user behavior and make recommendations, but this new system is likely to be seen as a significant departure from its previous approach.
The use of AI to determine user age is likely to be seen as a significant development in the world of online content. As more and more people turn to online platforms for entertainment, education, and social interaction, there is a growing need for platforms to ensure that they are providing a safe and responsible environment for users.
However, the new system is likely to be controversial, and there are likely to be concerns about its accuracy and effectiveness. The use of AI to determine user age is likely to be seen as a significant development in the world of online content, and it will be important for YouTube to provide clear guidance on how the system works and how users can appeal any incorrect decisions.
In conclusion, YouTube’s plan to use an AI tool to guess the age of its users based on their watch history is likely to be a significant development in the world of online content. While the system is designed to detect underage users and prevent them from accessing age-restricted content, it also raises concerns about privacy and accuracy. It will be important for YouTube to provide clear guidance on how the system works and how users can appeal any incorrect decisions.
Source: https://www.republicworld.com/tech/youtube-now-guessing-your-age-by-what-you-watch-not-what-you-say
