Meta adds ability to create teen accounts on Facebook and Messenger

Meta introduced teen accounts for Instagram users under 18 in September 2024, and is now adding such profiles to Facebook and Messenger. At the same time, the company announced expanded functionality for existing profiles.

New features for teen accounts on Facebook and Messenger will provide automatic protection from inappropriate content and unwanted contacts, and help teens make the most of their time online.

Teen accounts will initially appear on platforms in the US, Canada, and the UK, and will later be expanded to other regions.

In addition, teen accounts on Instagram will receive new features to protect against unwanted contacts. In particular, users under the age of 16 will not be able to live broadcast without parental permission. In addition, there will be a feature that will protect teens from unwanted images with nudity.

Meta also reports that after introducing teen accounts on Instagram, 94% of parents said the feature was helpful, and 85% said it helped their kids have a better time on social media. Over 90% of parents leave the safety settings Meta suggests.

As a reminder, after introducing teen accounts in September 2024, Meta also began using AI-based tools to determine users' real ages. However, it is unclear from the company's latest announcement whether these tools will also be used on Facebook.