Tencent Games uses facial recognition to restrict childrenâs screen time.
Children playing a game by Tencent during an event at a mall in Handan, China.Credit...China Stringer Network/Reuters
July 9, 2021
The Chinese internet conglomerate Tencent said this week that it would deploy facial recognition technology in its video games in an attempt to close a loophole in restrictions aimed at limiting screen time.
Underage players in China are required to log on using their real names and identification numbers as part of countrywide regulations aimed at keeping internet addiction in check. In 2019, the country imposed a curfew barring those under 18 from playing games from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. But some might try to use their parentsâ devices or identities to circumvent the restrictions, Tiffany May and Amy Chang Chien report for The New York Times.