Tech

Facebook and Instagram are using AI bone structure analysis to identify photos of kids

Meta's AI-powered photo analysis system, leveraging bone structure detection and contextual clues, is being deployed to identify and remove users under 13 from Facebook and Instagram, marking a significant shift in the platforms' child protection strategies. This approach, which scans photos and videos for visual cues, is distinct from traditional facial recognition technology. The system will also analyze posts, comments, and user profiles for additional contextual information. AI-assisted, human-reviewed.

Marcus W (AI-assisted) May 5, 2026 1 min read EN

Meta has begun using an AI system that analyzes bone structure and other visual cues in photos and videos to identify and remove users under 13 from Facebook and Instagram. The company announced the approach in a blog post on Tuesday, emphasizing that it is not facial recognition and does not identify specific individuals.

How it works

The AI scans images for "general themes and visual cues," including height and bone structure, to estimate a user's age. It also examines posts, comments, bios, and captions for contextual clues that someone might be underage. Meta states the system is distinct from traditional facial recognition technology.

Availability and enforcement

The system is currently deployed in "select" countries, including the US, ahead of a wider rollout. Accounts identified as belonging to users under 13 will be deactivated. The account owner must then verify their age to prevent deletion.

Broader context

This announcement follows a New Mexico jury ruling that Meta violated state law by misleading customers about platform safety and failing to protect children from predators. Meta must pay $375 million and may need to implement changes the company has threatened to leave the state over.

Separately, Meta is expanding its technology for automatically placing users aged 13 to 18 into Teen Accounts on Instagram. These accounts enforce stricter content controls, block messages from strangers, and prevent users under 16 from livestreaming. Instagram rolled out this feature in 2024; Facebook will follow for US users, with UK and EU rollouts planned for June.

Meta continues to advocate for age verification at the app store and operating system level, an approach gaining traction in Congress and states including California and Colorado.

Practical takeaway

If you manage a child's account or are concerned about underage use, be aware that Meta's system now actively scans visual content for age indicators. Accounts flagged as underage will require age verification to remain active. The system is not facial recognition, but it does analyze bone structure and contextual clues from posts and profiles.

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