Introduction
Roblox, the massively popular online platform known for its user-generated games and virtual experiences, recently unveiled a new suite of safety features aimed at teens aged 13 to 17. With rising concerns around online safety, especially for younger users, this update is a strategic move to enhance privacy, improve communication tools, and empower parents with deeper insights into their teen’s activity.
Why Roblox’s New Teen Safety Features Matter
In recent years, Roblox has faced criticism over its handling of safety issues. Notably, in April 2025, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier issued a subpoena following concerns that minors were being exposed to harmful content and inappropriate contact on the platform.
To address these issues, Roblox is rolling out significant changes—specifically targeting its teenage user base, which represents a substantial and active portion of its 70+ million daily users.
Trusted Connections: A Safer Way to Communicate
One of the most notable updates is the introduction of Trusted Connections, a new system that replaces the traditional “Friends” feature. This tool allows verified teens to chat and communicate via voice with people they know in real life—offering more expressive, less filtered communication within a safer digital environment.
“This additional freedom reduces the incentive for teens to move interactions off-platform where they may be exposed to greater risk,” said Ryan Ebanks, Senior Product Manager at Roblox.
Conversations between Trusted Connections will still be monitored for harmful behavior, such as grooming, ensuring a proactive approach to safety.
Roblox’s Advanced Age Estimation Technology
To access Trusted Connections, users must verify their age through Roblox’s new AI-powered age estimation technology. This system uses a selfie video to confirm whether the user is at least 13 years old.
If the algorithm cannot determine age with high confidence, users can opt for manual ID verification. Age verification not only unlocks communication features but also governs access to age-appropriate content and experiences on the platform.
Privacy Enhancements for Teen Users
Roblox is also empowering teens with new privacy controls, giving them more autonomy over their digital presence. These include:
Online status visibility – Options to make status visible to everyone, followers, Connections, or no one.
Push notification scheduling – Teens can now set timeframes to silence notifications, encouraging a healthier balance between digital and offline life.
These changes reflect a growing industry trend where platforms are expected to not just comply with regulations but proactively protect young users.
Empowering Parents With Better Controls
In tandem with teen-focused updates, Roblox has rolled out a parental insights dashboard, giving caregivers quick and actionable information. Parents can now:
View their teen’s Trusted Connections
Track time spent on the platform and in specific games
Get notifications for certain transactions
“We’ve designed these to really be quick at-a-glance insights that parents can fit into their busy schedules,” said Dina Lamdany, Senior Product Manager at Roblox.
These tools align with broader movements toward digital transparency and accountability, something every modern platform must now prioritize.
How Trenzest Supports Digital Safety & Innovation
At Trenzest, we applaud Roblox’s commitment to evolving with the needs of its community. As a platform dedicated to analyzing and amplifying tech trends that matter, we believe digital safety should never be an afterthought.
Whether you’re a tech entrepreneur, product leader, or digital marketer, understanding how platforms like Roblox are adapting to user needs can inform your own strategies.
We also recommend checking out our latest insights on AI-powered verification tools and youth-centric platform governance.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Roblox’s latest teen safety update represents a critical pivot toward greater accountability, trust, and user-centric design. By leveraging AI, enhancing parental oversight, and creating safer channels for teen interaction, the platform is setting a new standard in youth-focused digital engagement.
For tech leaders, educators, and brands targeting Gen Z, these developments are more than just news—they’re a signal to rethink your own safety frameworks.
To stay ahead in this fast-moving digital world, subscribe to Trenzest’s newsletter or contact us for a consultation on how your organization can embed trust and innovation into its platform.
