Teenagers spend less than 15 minutes a day on average using ChatGPT, according to new data released by OpenAI as concerns grow over the potential effects of artificial intelligence on children. The figures provide an early view of adolescent usage patterns as AI platforms become increasingly integrated into everyday life and technology companies face greater scrutiny over safety.

OpenAI Publishes First Data on Teen Usage

OpenAI said teenagers use ChatGPT for under 15 minutes per day on average. The company also reported that fewer than 2% of teens interact with the chatbot for more than three consecutive hours, suggesting that extended periods of continuous use represent a relatively small share of overall adolescent engagement.

The data was included in OpenAI’s first report focused specifically on teen use of ChatGPT. Publishing the figures comes as the rapid adoption of generative AI creates increasing pressure on technology companies to provide greater visibility into how younger users interact with their products.

AI Adoption Raises New Safety Questions

The figures come against a broader debate over the potential impact of AI chatbots on adolescent mental health and developmental safety. Unlike conventional digital tools, conversational AI systems can engage users through extended, personalized interactions, raising questions about how younger users may rely on such systems and how platforms should respond when interactions involve sensitive topics.

OpenAI’s usage data does not, on its own, establish whether ChatGPT has positive or negative effects on teenagers. It does, however, provide a quantitative measure of how frequently young users are engaging with the technology. That distinction will remain important as policymakers, researchers and technology companies assess the risks associated with adolescent AI use.

Safety Becomes a Strategic Issue for AI Companies

For OpenAI and its competitors, child safety is increasingly becoming part of the broader commercial and regulatory discussion surrounding AI. Greater adoption among younger users could expand the long-term user base for AI platforms, but it also increases the importance of safeguards designed specifically for minors.

The challenge is particularly significant because AI companies are developing products that can be used for education, research, writing and everyday problem-solving while also being capable of highly personalized conversations. Companies therefore face the task of balancing accessibility and functionality with safeguards appropriate for younger users.

What Comes Next for Teen AI Use

OpenAI’s initial figures provide a baseline, but continued monitoring will be necessary as AI adoption evolves. Usage patterns could change as teenagers become more familiar with AI tools and as companies introduce new features and applications.

Investors and policymakers will be watching whether future data shows changes in usage duration, engagement patterns and safety incidents, as well as how regulators respond to concerns involving minors. The ability of AI companies to demonstrate responsible growth while addressing child-safety risks could increasingly influence the technology sector’s regulatory environment and the long-term development of consumer AI platforms.