Tech media 9to5Mac reported yesterday (October 29) that if the proposed GUARD Act in the United States becomes law, Apple’s Siri will face three major challenges.

As previously reported by IT Home, due to growing concerns among parents about inappropriate content generated by AI chatbots, including sexual conversations and even assistance with suicide plans, US lawmakers from both parties have proposed a bill called the GUARD Act. The legislation aims to prohibit anyone under 18 from using AI chatbots.

Parents testified before Congress, stating that some AI companies are intentionally cultivating emotional dependency among young users to make them addicted to their products in a race to dominate the market. This bill is a direct response to these societal concerns.

If the bill becomes law, it could directly impact Apple in three key ways. First, Apple would be required to add age verification to a critical feature of Siri. Currently, when Siri is unable to answer a question, the system either automatically or upon request refers the question to ChatGPT. Under the new law, this action would need to confirm that the user is over 18 before proceeding.

Second, Apple’s planned new version of Siri might also face regulation. Given that its features will be significantly upgraded, the new Siri could be directly classified as an AI chatbot.

Since Siri is integrated at the operating system level, this means Apple would need to include an age verification process during the initial iPhone setup, fundamentally restricting access for underage users.

Finally, the bill will significantly increase pressure on Apple and Google, forcing them to implement a unified age verification system in their respective app stores. Apple has previously resisted such measures, but the new bill could serve as a crucial catalyst for changing its stance.

The above content is compiled by ModeZone, a fashion and entertainment magazine.