China's internet regulator has unveiled a 25-article draft regulation designed to create stronger legal protections for minors navigating the digital world. The Cyberspace Administration of China published the proposal on Friday, opening a public comment period through October 17 to gather feedback from stakeholders and the public.

The regulation addresses mounting concerns about how young people interact with technology, including issues around livestreaming, internet addiction, and artificial intelligence applications. A key feature is its age-differentiated approach, recognizing that children at different developmental stages face distinct online risks and require tailored safeguards.

One significant restriction prohibits anyone under 16 from operating livestreams or broadcasting content in real time. While younger users can still watch livestreams, platforms must provide and enforce a protected viewing mode for them. Experts note this threshold aligns with China's civil law framework, which recognizes that teenagers under 16 typically lack the maturity and life experience to manage the pressures of public broadcasting.

The draft also bans companies from offering virtual companions or AI-powered "virtual relatives" to minors, citing research showing these services can create unhealthy emotional attachments and interfere with real-world relationships. Legal scholars support this provision, explaining that such tools risk promoting internet addiction and encouraging impulsive spending among vulnerable young users.

According to policy analysts, the regulation establishes a collaborative framework involving internet platforms, educational institutions, cybersecurity authorities, and law enforcement to share responsibility for protecting children. The approach reflects growing global momentum around online child safety, with several countries tightening age requirements and content standards for young digital users. Officials have characterized the proposal as a distinctly Chinese solution that balances protection with ensuring minors can still benefit from internet access and digital literacy.