Google is rolling out an age-estimation system in Canada that uses account activity, including Google searches and YouTube viewing habits, to determine whether a user may be under 18.
The machine-learning technology analyzes signals already associated with a Google account, such as search activity and the types of videos watched on YouTube. Google says the system does not require collecting new information specifically for age estimation.
If Google determines that an account likely belongs to someone under 18, additional protections will automatically be applied. These include disabling personalized advertising and Google Maps Timeline, restricting age-sensitive ads and adult-only apps, and activating YouTube features such as bedtime and break reminders.
However, adults who are mistakenly classified as minors may be asked to verify their age by providing a government-issued ID or taking a selfie.
Google began gradually introducing the technology in Canada in September. Users classified as under 18 will receive notifications explaining which settings have changed and how adults can verify their age if the estimate is incorrect.
The Canadian rollout follows a similar system introduced in the United States in 2025, where Google and YouTube also used account activity to estimate users' ages.
The technology has raised privacy concerns, particularly around age verification methods involving identification documents or biometric information. Google says its approach is designed to minimize the collection of additional data.
Google has not publicly disclosed the accuracy rate of its Canadian age-estimation system.