Roblox launches real-time AI chat rephrasing to filter out banned language

Roblox is introducing a real-time, AI-powered chat rephrasing feature that automatically replaces banned words with more respectful language, the company announced on Thursday. The new feature goes beyond Roblox’s current text filter, which simply replaces banned words and phrases with the “#” symbol. But Roblox says that when users encounter strings of “####,” conversations can be disrupted and hard to follow. Now, instead of simply displaying hash marks, filtered text will be rephrased into more respectful language that is close to the user’s original intent. For example, a message that reads “Hurry TF up!” would previously have appeared as “####,” but will now be rephrased to “Hurry up!” Everyone in the chat is notified that the message has been rephrased to keep the conversation civil, Roblox says. “Chat is central to how people connect, coordinate, and play on Roblox,” said Rajiv Bhatia, vice president of User and Discovery Product at Roblox, in a press release . “Real-time rephrasing helps keep gameplay and conversations on track while guiding language toward what’s appropriate. This approach reduces friction in chat while maintaining the standards that help keep our community civil.” Roblox notes that while rephrasing reduces some of the disruption in the chat, its safety system remains in effect for more serious behavior. The new feature is supported in all languages currently available through Roblox’s automatic translation tools. Techcrunch event Disrupt 2026: The tech ecosystem, all in one room Your next round. Your next hire. Your next breakout opportunity. Find it at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, where 10,000+ founders, investors, and tech leaders gather for three days of 250+ tactical sessions, powerful introductions, and market-defining innovation. Register now to save up to $400. Save up to $300 or 30% to TechCrunch Founder Summit 1,000+ founders and investors come together at TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026 for a full day focused on growth, execution, and...