Popular gaming platform Roblox announced Monday it will launch specialized account types for younger players as part of an enhanced child safety initiative, responding to ongoing global concerns about protecting minors online.
Starting in early June, the company will implement two new account categories through its age verification system and parental controls. Children between ages 5 and 8 will receive “Roblox Kids” accounts, while users aged 9 to 15 will get “Roblox Select” accounts.
“We will also introduce, at the same time, new requirements on what content standards must be met in order to have content or games appear in either the Roblox Kids account or the Roblox Select account,” Chief Safety Officer Matt Kaufman explained during a media briefing.
The gaming company has faced mounting pressure from international governments in recent years due to allegations that it failed to adequately shield children from online predators and harmful content.
Content available on “Roblox Kids” accounts will face restrictions based on age-appropriate material and must pass a “rigorous three-step review process” with stringent requirements for game creators, according to Kaufman.
The platform will disable chat functions automatically for “Kids” accounts, while “Select” accounts will gradually gain chat access depending on the user’s age.
The comprehensive review system requires game developers to complete identity verification, activate two-factor authentication, and maintain an active Roblox Plus subscription.
The company revealed Friday that its new subscription service will debut April 30, priced at $4.99 monthly. The plan offers users discounts on digital items and character customizations, plus additional platform features.
