Brazil raises minimum age for use of AI and networks.

Brazil will raise the minimum age for using social media and artificial intelligence starting in 2026. The change, foreseen in the new digital age rating system, will take effect on March 17th of next year and directly affects platforms such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and social networks.

New rules to protect young people.

According to the Ministry of Justice and Public Security (MJSP), the new guideline defines that messaging apps will be recommended for users aged 12 and older, while social networks will require a minimum age of 16. AI chatbots, previously recommended for users aged 16 and older, will now have a more flexible classification, allowing their use from the age of 13.

Platforms will be required to implement mechanisms to verify users' ages, ensuring that children and adolescents do not have access to inappropriate content or interactions. This measure is part of the Digital ECA, a law sanctioned in September by President Lula, which obliges digital platforms to strengthen the safety of minors.

Impact on schools and the market

The adjustment to the minimum age for AI has generated debate. The advisory committee of the Ministry of Justice and Public Security warned that the previous recommendation would limit the use of generative AI tools in schools, practically to the final year of high school. The new rule seeks to balance protection and access to technology.

Companies like OpenAI and Google have already adapted their policies, aligning themselves with the new classification. The goal is to ensure that students have safe access to educational tools, without creating loopholes for risks.

Why does this matter?

• Digital platforms will need to implement age verification systems.
• Schools will be able to use generative AI more safely.
• Teenagers will have more controlled access to social media.

Photo by Marvin Meyer on Unsplash