Instagram is implementing new guidelines for Teen Accounts, aligning them with PG-13 movie ratings. Teens under 18 will automatically be placed in a 13+ setting, requiring parental permission to opt out. A stricter setting called Limited Content will also be introduced for parents seeking more control over their teen's experience. Feedback from thousands of parents worldwide helped shape these changes, which aim to ensure safe and age-appropriate content for teens.
This update is the most significant since the introduction of Teen Accounts and builds on existing protections for hundreds of millions of teens globally. Instagram will utilize age prediction technology to enforce content protections, even if teens claim to be older. While some suggestive content may still appear, efforts will be made to minimize these instances.
Content Policy Updates
Instagram's updated policies will further restrict content by hiding or not recommending posts with strong language, risky stunts, and potentially harmful behaviors. A recent Ipsos survey revealed that 95% of US parents believe these settings will be beneficial, with 90% finding them easier to understand.
Expanded Protections
Improvements in technology will prevent teens from following accounts that share inappropriate content. Teens will also be restricted from seeing certain sensitive search terms and content in recommendations, Feed, and Stories. AI experiences for teens will be guided by PG-13 ratings to avoid inappropriate responses.
Limited Content Setting
The Limited Content setting will filter even more content and restrict teens' ability to see or leave comments. This option has been positively received, with 96% of US parents appreciating the additional control.
Parental Feedback
Instagram has actively sought parental feedback, receiving over 3 million content ratings to refine its guidelines. Regular surveys will continue to gather parent opinions on content appropriateness, and a new feature will allow parents to flag posts they find unsuitable for teens.
Rollout Timeline
These updates will begin rolling out gradually in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada, with full implementation expected by the end of the year. Future plans include expanding these changes globally and enhancing protections for teens claiming to be adults on Facebook.
