Will Instagram Soon Be Able to Guess Your Age?

A conversation has recently arisen involving app providers like Apple and Google, and social media platforms.

Current age restrictions mean that users under the age of 14 are not permitted to hold their own accounts on any of the major social media platforms. However, at present the onus on age checks and verifications lie within the apps themselves.

Now, Meta is turning the tables on the app stores and device hosts – namely Google and Apple – and encouraging them to restrict apps from being downloaded at an App Store level. This would mean that younger users looking to defy the age restrictions and laws would be unable to download the social apps onto their devices, so that they can’t even reach the point of submitting false information to build a profile. 

What Do the App Stores Think?

Unsurprisingly, Apple and Google aren’t keen. The responsibility for age checking is becoming increasingly difficult to navigate and safeguard, and in the meantime, Meta’s platforms are trialling their own new tricks.

One new trick being explored by Meta uses a third party application that age checks the user by their biometric data and appearance. It essentially estimates their age, blocking those it deems as being too young to use the app safely. 

While still in test mode, this is just one way that Meta platforms like Instagram and Facebook are looking to take back control over their user demographics and keep users safe.

What Could This Mean for Users?

With age restrictions firmly set at 14 for all social media platforms, this shouldn’t affect businesses and content creators.

However, if the rollout of further age verification checks and monitoring tools does impact your viewing figures and followers, then consider buying packages of Instagram engagement from a reputable supplier to keep your profile well stocked.