Spending hours unsupervised in vast online ecosystems, teens can average over 7 hours of screen time daily, and even 5-8 year olds are online for over 3.5 hours a day.
Though filtered platforms like Youtube Kids offer a wealth of enriching media, competing priorities often result in failure to deliver. Instead, young users are frequently subjected to "filter bubbles". These algorithmic loops lead children down narrow, repetitive, or even harmful content streams.
As these online environments increasingly encourage addictive consumption behaviors, we see a self-reinforcing threat to child development: unprecedented access to content without the skills required to engage with it meaningfully:
In response, I began to frame these platforms not just as content providers, but partners in developing mindful, competent digital citizens.
I soon envisioned a different, more empowering kind of “filter”—one that understands, empowers and expands, equipping children to navigate digital media with confidence and purpose.
CHOBO the Octopus employs AI and active analysis to observe content patterns, emotional engagement cues (like pauses or replays), and response interactions to evolve his prompts and suggestions over time.
His name, a nod to 'chobot' (Czech for octopus), hints at his clever and adaptable nature, inspired by the remarkable intelligence and curiosity of his real-world counterparts.
Throughout their exploration of digital oceans, CHOBO validates interests, offers timely tips, and asks thoughtful questions, illuminating new possibilities and celebrating every step of the way.
Early concept testing with parents and educators revealed strong enthusiasm for CHOBO’s balanced approach to digital literacy.
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While a full rollout remains hypothetical, early-stage prototyping and feedback suggest that CHOBO could become a powerful educational differentiator, not only increasing platform value but inspiring a generation of:
YannaNguyen
