Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, has spoken publicly about why he and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, choose not to show their children’s faces online. During an appearance on the Hasan Minhaj Doesn’t Know podcast released on October 29, the Duke discussed online safety, the risks associated with digital technology, and the couple’s long-standing approach to protecting the privacy of their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
The conversation highlighted the broader concerns shared by many parents about the influence of social media, the rise of artificial intelligence, and how children’s images can be used once they are posted online. Harry’s remarks align with documented privacy decisions the couple has made since stepping back as working members of the Royal Family in 2020.
Why the Sussexes Limit Photos of Their Children
Since moving to the United States, Prince Harry and Meghan have been deliberate about limiting access to their children’s images. When official photographs of Archie or Lilibet have been released — such as during birthdays, family updates, or major events — their parents typically share only a few selected images. In many cases, their children’s faces are not shown.
This approach reflects the couple’s broader emphasis on safety and privacy. Public communications, including statements from their spokesperson and appearances in verified media interviews, confirm that they prioritize maintaining a controlled and secure environment for their children.
During the podcast interview, Harry explained why he believes parents should be cautious when posting children’s photos online. He noted that once images are shared, they can circulate widely, and families may have limited control over where the images appear or how they are used.
Harry’s Concerns About AI and Digital Image Manipulation
One of the central topics of the podcast conversation was artificial intelligence. When host Hasan Minhaj asked about the use of AI to alter or misrepresent photos, Harry addressed the fast-changing digital landscape. He expressed concern about how new technologies may create challenges for families if children’s images are widely available online.
His comments reflect ongoing discussions across the technology sector. Major institutions — including the United Nations, the European Union, and leading digital safety organisations — have emphasised the need for stronger protections, clearer regulations, and increased transparency regarding AI-generated content.
Harry noted that the rise of unregulated AI tools has created uncertainty for parents about how images might be repurposed. He encouraged families to consider the long-term implications before sharing identifiable photos online.
The Couple’s Broader Views on Social Media Safety
In addition to concerns about AI, Prince Harry highlighted the impact of social media on young people, especially adolescent boys and young men. These concerns align with research published by reputable organisations including the UK’s Office for Communications (Ofcom), the US Surgeon General’s Advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health, and the UK’s Royal Society for Public Health.
Harry’s comments on the podcast reflect these widely reported findings, noting that social media content can sometimes lead young people toward harmful or unhealthy online environments. During the interview, he discussed how he and Meghan have followed these issues closely through their work with technology-focused initiatives and nonprofit partners.
The Duke also acknowledged the online criticism he and Meghan have faced over the years, which has been documented by several established news outlets. He noted that their personal experiences have strengthened their commitment to supporting healthier online spaces.
A Focus on Technology Reform and Digital Responsibility
Since relocating to the United States, Harry and Meghan have been involved in a variety of humanitarian and advocacy projects. Their foundation, Archewell, has supported mental health initiatives, digital safety programmes, and partnerships with technology-related nonprofits. These efforts have been mentioned in official reports and public statements released through the Archewell Foundation.
During the podcast interview, Harry said that he and Meghan aim to better understand the root causes of digital-related issues. He emphasised the importance of supporting organisations and experts who work to make the online environment safer and more transparent.
Their involvement in these areas also reflects the couple’s long-standing interest in mental health and child wellbeing — topics that Harry has discussed in numerous public interviews and initiatives, including The Royal Foundation’s Heads Together campaign prior to 2020 and subsequent projects in the United States.
Preparing for Their Children’s Future Use of Technology
Prince Harry also discussed how he and Meghan think about their children’s future relationship with technology. While Archie and Lilibet are still young, he noted that they occasionally talk about what the family’s rules and expectations will be when the children are older.
Harry explained that many parents face similar uncertainties as digital environments evolve quickly. He acknowledged that different families have different approaches but emphasised the importance of digital awareness. His comments mirror guidance from leading child-safety experts who recommend open communication, consistent boundaries, and age-appropriate technology use.
The Duke said their goal is to make sure that by the time Archie and Lilibet reach the age where they want to use a mobile device or join a social media platform, the online environment will be safer than it is today. He encouraged increasing awareness among parents so more families understand the risks and can make informed decisions.
Advocating for a Safer Digital Environment
Prince Harry highlighted that many parents rely on governments and regulatory bodies to safeguard online spaces. His remarks echo discussions taking place globally, including ongoing policy efforts such as the United Kingdom’s Online Safety Act, the European Union’s Digital Services Act, and debates in the United States about digital privacy and children’s online protections.
These efforts aim to create frameworks that make digital platforms more accountable and provide stronger protections for young users. While Harry did not refer to any specific legislation, he stressed the importance of ensuring that children grow up in a healthier technological environment.
A Continuing Conversation About Digital Wellbeing
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have consistently highlighted mental health, online safety, and family wellbeing in their public work. Prince Harry’s appearance on the Hasan Minhaj Doesn’t Know podcast provided further insight into their personal approach to parenting in a digital age and reinforced the importance of responsible online practices.
Their protective stance toward Archie and Lilibet’s privacy aligns with guidance from numerous child-safety organisations and reflects a growing trend among parents who choose limited online exposure for their children.
As digital technology continues to evolve, the couple’s advocacy for safer online spaces — combined with their personal decisions about privacy — contributes to ongoing public conversations about how families can navigate the modern online world.