Yet Instagram’s announcement today could mean a major shift. In order to make the online experience better for everyone, it will automatically put users younger than 18 years of age in a new “13+” content setting. This new default will limit the types of content teens can view on the platform. It will be in accordance with the movie rating PG-13 standards.
Starting in 2026, Instagram will roll this revision out internationally. This action is one piece of Meta’s overall plan to help make the social media space safer for youth. Then in 2024, the platform rolled out Teen Accounts. This is perhaps the most exciting update yet, and it’s one of the most impactful changes it has made to date. Instagram’s app’s overarching goal is to raise a healthier digital world that curtails the predatory behavior of big tech companies with children.
The new “13+” content setting will block mature searches, like “alcohol” and “gore.” Instagram is working to develop a more age-appropriate experience for teenagers. This method closely aligns with the expectations parents want—similar to movie rating systems they are so used to seeing. Parents have rated more than 3 million pieces of content through Instagram’s global parental feedback program. Their knowledge and experience have greatly informed the development of these new guidelines.
Tara Hopkins, Meta’s global director of public policy, stressed at the panel about the need to have content standards be in line with parents’ expectations.
“We’re doing this to really speak the language of parents who are much more familiar with movie ratings in terms of kind of a familiar model for those who are using Instagram,” – Tara Hopkins
This news comes against a backdrop of increasing demands for stronger protections for minors online. Just this month, states like California and Utah passed or proposed legislation to prevent adult users from engaging with minors. Instagram has released a new update to address these growing concerns. It would be an important step towards making teens’ experiences on social media safer.
Under the new policy, teens will no longer be able to exit the “13+” setting without receiving parental permission. This implementation detail gives parents the tools and information to remain engaged in their children’s online activity. It provides a well thought-out, handpicked library of age-appropriate and safe content for children.
Meta’s pledge to continue refining Teen Accounts is a positive step, showcasing the company’s recognition of the importance of user safety and satisfaction. According to Tara Hopkins, the team is dedicated to continually improving these accounts based on feedback from both parents and young users.
“We will continue to refine Teen Accounts,” – Meta’s Hopkins
Instagram intends to follow suit with a global rollout in 2026. Their team is passionate about making changes that will be felt by parents and teens alike, and they won’t stop until they’ve made an impact. The platform acknowledges the importance of fostering a safer digital environment. Young users should have the ability to learn and create in an open environment while being protected from harmful adult content.
