Meta will use AI to analyze height and bone structure to identify underage users (techcrunch.com)

Meta has announced the implementation of AI technology designed to analyze photos and videos for visual indicators, such as height and bone structure, to identify users under the age of 13 on its platforms, Facebook and Instagram. This approach is not reliant on facial recognition; instead, it combines visual and contextual insights—including birthday celebrations and school-related mentions—to enhance the identification and removal of underage accounts. While currently available in select countries, Meta plans to expand this system across more features, including Instagram Live and Facebook Groups. This initiative is significant for the AI/ML community as it represents a novel application of AI in addressing child safety concerns online, particularly in response to recent legal pressures on the company regarding platform safety for minors. By leveraging AI to assess user-generated content systematically, Meta aims to ensure compliance with age restrictions while enhancing user protection. The technology's rollout comes at a critical time following a $375 million penalty imposed on Meta, underscoring the urgent need for effective safeguards in the face of ongoing scrutiny over child safety.