Roblox is rolling out mandatory age-gated account tiers in the US starting in mid-May to better protect younger users. The tiers include Roblox Kids (ages 5 to 8), Roblox Select (9 to 15) and Roblox (16 and up), each with varying access to content and chat features. The company says more than half of its users have completed age verification, and it will restrict access to those who do not.

SwitchBot has introduced a new version of its classic button-pressing robot, the SwitchBot Bot Rechargeable, which still uses a small extending arm to physically press buttons or rocker switches but now includes a built-in 370mAh rechargeable battery. Instead of replacing disposable batteries, users can recharge the robot via a side-mounted USB-C port, making it more convenient and potentially more eco-friendly.

Netflix has expanded its gaming lineup by adding Jackbox Party Essentials to its TV app, giving subscribers free access to three popular party games, such as Fibbage 4, Drawful 2 and Quiplash 3. These titles, which each support up to eight players, are now included as part of Netflix's Party Games collection, further enhancing the platform's social gaming appeal.

Amazon has launched an AI-powered tool in collaboration with PetArmor and Best Friends Animal Society to enhance pet adoptions by matching potential adopters with cats and dogs based on lifestyle preferences. The "Protect Playtime" campaign includes creating engaging, AI-generated videos to assist potential adopters with imagining life with a pet and features physical infrastructure improvements at shelters to facilitate adoptions. This comprehensive effort seeks to achieve a no-kill status for healthy and treatable pets.

AI models are reshaping consumer habits, with ChatGPT becoming a go-to for everyday tasks due to its convenience and reliability, similar to Amazon's impact on online shopping. "Consumers are not evaluating AI models," says PYMNTS CEO Karen Webster, adding, "They are using them." Some 56% of US consumers use AI for various tasks, including product discovery, meal planning and grocery shopping, leading them to form habits around how they use AI.