Global Rise in Children’s Interest in AI, Including Egypt, Reveals New Digital Behaviour Trends
KHADAMATY-NEW
As internet penetration in Egypt surpasses 82%, and children gain access to digital platforms at increasingly younger ages, digital safety has become a growing priority for families. New research by cybersecurity company Kaspersky reveals a notable shift in children’s online behaviour, with artificial intelligence tools emerging alongside social media, gaming, and streaming platforms as key areas of interest
The findings, based on anonymized global and Egypt-specific data from Kaspersky Safe Kids and covering trends from January to February 2026, highlight a significant rise in curiosity around AI-powered applications. AI-related services now account for approximately one-quarter of all Google searches made by children, reflecting rapid adoption of tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Character.AI, Microsoft Copilot, Grok, and DeepSeek. These platforms are increasingly integrated into children’s daily digital experiences in Egypt and worldwide
“Children are increasingly interacting with AI tools – and in many cases are more comfortable using them than adults,” said Anna Larkina, web content analysis expert at Kaspersky. “Rather than restricting access, parents should focus on exploring these tools together, setting healthy boundaries, and helping children understand their limitations. Solutions like Kaspersky Safe Kids can support families in guiding digital behaviour without relying solely on restrictions
Beyond AI, communication-related searches ranked second, driven by platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest. Video streaming services, particularly YouTube and Netflix, also remain dominant in children’s online activity
YouTube continues to be the leading content platform among children, accounting for nearly a quarter of total app usage in Egypt, in line with global trends. WhatsApp and TikTok ranked second and third respectively, reinforcing their role in shaping how children communicate and consume content online
Search trends on YouTube show music as the dominant category, with strong interest in K-pop, cartoons, and content creators. Sports-related searches also featured prominently, led by the English Premier League and Arsenal F.C., alongside growing interest in the National Basketball Association and the 2026 Winter Olympics, reflecting children’s engagement with major global sporting events
To enhance digital safety and promote healthier online habits, Kaspersky recommends that parents:
Maintain open communication with children about online risks and establish clear usage guidelines
Use trusted security tools such as Kaspersky Premium to protect against malicious downloads
Stay informed about emerging digital threats and monitor online activity
Utilize parental control apps like Kaspersky Safe Kids to manage screen time, filter content, and track safety
