Google Set to Allow Teens to use AI Tool Bard

Google is set to expand its artificial intelligence (AI) tool Bard to teenagers globally starting tomorrow, initially in English with plans for additional languages down the road.

Google will also add learning functions in the platform, introducing a math learning experience within the platform. This will allow teens to upload math equations, with Bard being able to provide solutions and detailed step-by-step explanations.

Furthermore, Bard’s capabilities extend to data visualization, allowing it to generate charts from tables or data provided in a prompt.

The tech giant said in a press release that they consulted extensively with child safety and development experts to shape content policies that prioritize the well-being of teens, as they collaborated with organizations like the Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI).

“FOSI’s research found that most teens and parents expect that GenAI skills will be an important part of their future,” Founder & CEO of the Family Online Safety Institute Stephen Balkam said.

“Google’s thoughtful approach to expanding Bard access to teens represents an important step in offering teens the opportunity to explore this technology with the appropriate safeguards in place,” Balkam added.

Meanwhile, Bard for teens will also be equipped to provide resources such as an AI Literacy Guide and a video on using generative AI responsibly, according to Google.

Moreover, they said that the platform incorporates safety features and guardrails to prevent the display of inappropriate content.

The introduction of a double-check response feature for fact-based questions adds an additional layer of scrutiny. (GFB)