Roblox announces short-video, AI features amid child safety concerns

Roblox has revealed exciting new features, including a short-video platform and artificial intelligence tools, as scrutiny from lawmakers intensifies regarding the safety of children on its platform. The new feature, called Roblox Moments, will allow users aged 13 and older to create and share clips of their gameplay within a dedicated feed. In addition to video sharing, the introduction of AI capabilities will empower users to design intricate 3D objects for their games. Users can look forward to utilizing these tools to craft unique creations, such as futuristic monster trucks, seamlessly integrated with their game’s visual style. Roblox CEO Dave Baszucki is set to discuss these developments in detail during a live interview on CNBC at 4:15 p.m. ET, following the company's developer conference. The Moments feature will be released in a limited capacity today, with expansive AI tools expected to be available to all users by the end of the year. While users can share videos from more mature games, those under the required age will be restricted from viewing such content. The company has committed to monitoring all submissions on Moments, ensuring a safer environment by allowing users to report inappropriate content, as explained by Matt Kaufman, Roblox’s safety chief. Despite these advancements, Roblox is currently facing multiple lawsuits, including one from Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, which claims the platform fails to adequately protect young users from online predators. Roblox has refuted these claims, asserting that it does not intentionally compromise user safety. Furthermore, the company is expanding its age estimation program, which was first launched in July, to enhance its protective measures for younger players.