Roblox Sets New Safety Standards with Age-Based Communication Features

Roblox Corporation (NYSE: RBLX), a leader in the immersive gaming and creation platform, has announced a significant enhancement to user safety and communication standards through the introduction of age-based chat features. The company aims to revolutionize online communication by implementing mandatory age checks, making it the first platform in the gaming industry to do so. This initiative, which builds on a preliminary announcement made in September, is set to establish a new benchmark in user safety and age-appropriate interactions within the digital landscape.

Roblox’s new age-based chat functionality is designed to facilitate conversations among users within similar age groups, thereby creating a safer environment. Users can voluntarily undergo an age estimation process to access chat features, which will be enforced in selected markets starting in December. The rollout will begin in Australia, New Zealand, and the Netherlands, with a broader global implementation planned for early January.

Matt Kaufman, Chief Safety Officer at Roblox, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Every day, we work to provide over 150 million users with a safe, positive, age-appropriate experience on Roblox. By requiring facial age checks to access chat features, we’re helping create an age-appropriate environment for every user, and we encourage the broader industry to adopt similar standards.”

The age check process is designed to be user-friendly, utilizing Facial Age Estimation technology. Users can complete the age check directly within the Roblox app by following simple on-screen prompts. Once completed, users will be assigned to one of several age groups, including U9, 9–12, 13–15, 16–17, 18–20, or 21+. The chat functionality will then restrict interactions based on these age classifications.

For users under the age of nine, chat features will be disabled by default unless parental consent is obtained following the age check.

In addressing users' privacy concerns, Roblox has taken steps to ensure that the age verification process is both safe and secure. The images and videos captured during the age checks are processed by the vendor Persona and deleted immediately afterward. While participation in the age check is optional, access to chat features will be restricted until the process is completed.

Jules Polonetsky, CEO of the Future of Privacy Forum, commended Roblox for its privacy-preserving approach, stating, “Roblox deploying this privacy-preserving implementation of thoughtful age assurance for its uniquely mixed audience of youth and adults will strengthen protections for younger players while respecting user rights.”

Roblox has made substantial investments in user safety, launching over 145 new safety initiatives since January 2025. The introduction of age-based chat is part of a multilayered safety strategy that includes:

Additionally, Roblox is launching a new Safety Center, a dedicated resource for parents and caregivers that provides tools and guidance for managing their children's online activities.

The rollout of age-based chat represents a significant milestone in Roblox’s ongoing commitment to fostering a safe and engaging community for users of all ages. By prioritizing age verification and communication safety, Roblox aims to not only protect its younger audience but also set a new industry standard for online interaction.

In conclusion, Roblox’s proactive approach to age verification and communication safety reflects its long-term vision of a platform where users can explore, create, and connect in a secure environment, reinforcing its position as a leader in the gaming industry.