OpenAI launches ChatGPT for Teens globally, with parental controls and study mode for 13-17 year olds

OpenAI launched ChatGPT for Teens globally on August 18, 2026. The new experience automatically engages when a user is estimated to be under 18 or self-identifies their age as between 13 and 17, and limits conversations about high-risk topics such as self-harm, violence and eating disorders.

The new version includes Study Mode, which uses guided questions and step-by-step support to help teenagers understand learning material. When the system detects a student attempting to take shortcuts on homework, it redirects them into Study Mode for step-by-step collaboration. It also includes quizzes, learning visualizations, and a Quiet Hours feature, allowing parents or teenagers to set study times as default.

Parents can link accounts to set Quiet Hours, manage certain settings, and receive notifications when teens discuss sensitive topics. OpenAI said it would estimate user age through a mix of self-reported age, behavioral signals and other verification, defaulting to the safer setting when uncertain.

OpenAI noted that about 90 percent of teen ChatGPT users turn to the product for learning. The launch ran alongside the same-day announcement of a partnership with CodeAI (formerly Code.org), including a joint advisory council, AI Hour events, a first Builders Challenge, Career Journeys, and consultation on CodeAI's AI Foundations curriculum.