At least 20 million children across 10 countries have used artificial intelligence, according to new analysis from UNICEF, with many young people adopting the technology far faster than adults.
The UN children's agency said children are outpacing adults "by adopting it at rates more than three times faster," based on data gathered from the 10 countries surveyed.
The findings show more than 2 million children or one in ten said they turn to AI "for advice on things that worry them." An estimated 13 million children reported using AI tools to support their learning and homework.
UNICEF said the rapid uptake is running ahead of efforts to regulate the technology, leaving children particularly exposed.
"Children are more exposed to AI systems — including how they are designed, their underlying business models, and how their own data is used — yet have far less power to avoid or challenge them," the agency said, adding that "most AI governance does not prioritise children."
