Elon Musk is actively developing age verification systems for X in the UK, a concept that Xbox might consider adopting.
In the realm of digital age verification, two major platforms, X (formerly Twitter) and Xbox, are making strides to ensure a safe and secure environment for users, particularly for those accessing adult content or participating in online games.
X's Age Verification System
The age verification system on X platform leverages cutting-edge technology, including AI-based facial age estimation and traditional ID verification methods. Users can choose to upload a live selfie, which is analysed by X's proprietary AI called Grok, or a government-issued ID for age estimation.
X's system also integrates multiple automated triggers such as email and network-based data before prompting for user-involved verification. The primary goal is to comply with legal age restrictions on viewing sensitive or 18+ content in countries like the UK and EU.
However, the system has faced criticism for being bypassable via VPNs or fake IDs, but X is continually working to minimize fraud.
Xbox's Age Verification System
Xbox's age verification system, set to roll out intensively in 2026, is focused on verifying age for safe social and online play. It requires proof of government-issued ID, age estimation, mobile provider check, or credit card check.
Xbox restricts social features such as voice/chat/game invites for those not age-verified. The system is regionally based and aims to accommodate diverse safety needs.
Why X's System Is Considered Better
X's system stands out due to its advanced, automated AI facial age estimation technology combined with flexible verification options. This approach aims to reduce user burden and streamline compliance with age laws on a social media content platform.
The use of AI-driven facial age estimation at scale is unique, allowing rapid, native-age checks without requiring manual ID submission every time. X's system also combines multiple automated signals (verified accounts, network data, email) and user-involved methods, reducing friction for many users.
While Xbox offers robust methods, X's AI approach is seen as more scalable and adaptable for continuous, real-time age checks on varied content.
Age Verification Challenges
Despite the efforts made by X and Xbox, there are still challenges. For instance, someone could have lied about their age in 2012 and still be under 18 today. Additionally, bypassing age verification on platforms like Discord using a game's photo mode and uploading a generic driver's license to bypass age verification on several sites are potential loopholes that need addressing.
As platforms like X and Xbox implement age verification systems, users are encouraged to verify their ages to maintain a safe and secure online environment. For Xbox users, verification starts this week, using methods such as Yoti, credit card details, or mobile phone number verification.
[1] Article about X's age verification system [2] Article about bypassing X's age verification system [3] Article about the rise of VPN usage due to age verification [4] Article about Xbox's age verification system [5] Article about the limitations of X's age verification system
Note: URLs are placeholders and should be replaced with actual links to relevant articles.
Age Verification Links:
- X's Age Verification: https://www.x.com/ageverification
- Xbox's Age Verification: https://aka.ms/XboxUKAgeVerification
- The Xbox Series X is set to receive a software update in the realm of gaming, introducing an age verification system for safe social and online play.
- Microsoft has joined the ranks of technology companies that offer age verification, following in the footsteps of platforms like Twitter and Xbox.
- The new AI-based facial age estimation software on Windows devices is a testament to Microsoft's commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all users, especially those purchasing and accessing gaming content.
- The rise in technology gadgets, such as gaming consoles, has prompted a need for more robust age verification systems, with the Xbox Series X taking the lead in this area.
- As upgrades in technology continue to shape the gaming landscape, it's essential for software developers to keep refining their age verification methods, addressing challenges such as bypassing verification systems via VPNs or fake IDs.
