Roblox expands age-estimation technology and adopts standardized global game ratings

Roblox

Roblox is taking significant steps to enhance child safety on its platform by expanding its age-estimation technology to all users and introducing standardized content ratings in partnership with the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC). The moves come amid lawsuits and criticism over the platform’s handling of underage users.

By the end of the year, Roblox plans to roll out the age-estimation system to all users accessing its communication tools, including voice and text chat. The system works by scanning selfies and analysing facial features to estimate a user’s age. According to the company, this technology complements existing measures, such as ID-based age verification and verified parental consent, providing a more accurate assessment than self-reported birth dates. Roblox also plans to introduce additional systems to further limit communications between adults and minors on the platform.

The new IARC partnership will replace Roblox’s internal content ratings with globally recognised systems. In the U.S., games will display ESRB ratings; in South Korea, GRAC; in Germany, USK; and elsewhere in Europe and the U.K., PEGI. The aim is to give parents clearer guidance on the content their children are exposed to, including factors such as violence, blood and gore, adult language, gambling, and substance use.

These updates build on safety measures announced in July, including restrictions for users under 13 who are prevented from accessing unfiltered voice and text chat. Roblox also limits users aged 13 to 17 from adding new “trusted connections” unless they can verify real-world acquaintance through contact imports or QR codes.

Roblox’s ongoing investments in safety include Roblox Sentinel, an open-source AI system that identifies early signs of child endangerment, as well as parental controls, tools to restrict communications, and technology to detect rule-breaking activity on servers. Despite these measures, lawsuits in California, Texas, Pennsylvania and Louisiana have alleged that child predators continue to target users. Research reported by The Guardian also found that children can still encounter inappropriate content and interact with bad actors.

Other recent concerns include the popularity of the Roblox game Grow a Garden, where children were reportedly encouraged to buy and sell virtual items for real money, raising questions about exposure to financial exploitation.

Roblox hopes the combination of expanded age-estimation tools and standardized ratings will give parents a better understanding of the games their children play. “Roblox is committed to creating a safe platform for our users and empowering parents to make the best decision for their children,” said Matt Kaufman, chief safety officer. “We’re excited to partner with IARC and hope it will provide parents globally with more clarity and confidence regarding age-appropriate content.”