Meta Expands AI Age Checks on Instagram Worldwide

Meta announced on 9 November 2026 that it is expanding its AI age estimation technology worldwide on Instagram. The system can automatically place accounts it suspects belong to teenagers aged 13 to 17 into Teen Account settings, regardless of the birth date shown on the profile.

The AI examines profile information, posts, comments, captions, bios, birthday greetings, and references to school grades for age clues. It can also analyze photos and videos for general visual patterns such as height or body structure. Meta says this visual check does not use biometric facial recognition to identify individuals.

“Instagram can apply Teen Account settings automatically, regardless of the age that appears on the profile.”

Accounts flagged as teenage receive restrictions that limit incoming direct messages to people the user follows or is already connected with. Sensitive content in areas such as Explore and Reels is also restricted. Younger teens generally need a parent’s approval to loosen these protections.

Meta began testing automatic Teen Account placement in the United States in 2025 before widening it to countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. The new announcement extends that approach globally. Meta says the move also builds on commitments made in settlements with US attorneys general regarding the identification of teenagers and children under 13.

Adults who believe Instagram has misjudged their age can start with the notice in the app and follow any age-confirmation instructions provided. They can also check their date of birth under their account’s personal details. Meta says it deactivates accounts suspected of belonging to users under 13 and asks users to prove their age to prevent deletion.

Meta says millions of teenagers will end up using a more restricted version of Instagram. The company states the measure aims to stop minors from bypassing platform protections simply by indicating they are 18 or older.