• Temporary suspension of AI characters for minors worldwide
• Updated version to focus on age-appropriate, safe content

Meta announced a temporary halt to minors’ access to AI characters across all its apps globally, ahead of launching an updated version tailored to their age group.

The company confirmed it has not abandoned the project but aims to provide a safer experience for minors.

The decision comes days before Meta’s trial in New Mexico, where the company is accused of failing to adequately protect children from risks on its apps.

In October, Meta had introduced parental controls allowing guardians to monitor minors’ interactions with AI characters and manage accessible topics.

With the new update, minors’ access to AI characters will be temporarily suspended until the updated version is ready.

Meta stated that the changes respond to parents’ requests for greater control and insight into their children’s interactions with digital characters.

The new version will provide age-appropriate responses, focusing on educational topics, sports, and hobbies, while avoiding content unsuitable for minors.

Meta confirmed investigations continue into how victims accessed the virtual “basement,” while teams are developing safety tools to ensure a secure experience for minors.