Apple previewed new child safety measures Monday that give parents control to set content restrictions and time limits on their child’s device.
These new tools “help parents create safer, more enriching digital experiences for their kids,” Apple said in a press release.
What are the new safety measures?
With the new software, parents can set their child up with a “child account” and immediately implement several safety protections, including:
Setup Assistant: Parents choose which apps their child can access. New downloads and in-app purchases on the child’s device require parental approval.
Communication Safety: In addition to existing software that blurs nudity in messages and FaceTime calls, which is turned on by default for users younger than 18, the Communication Safety feature blocks violent content in shared images and videos. And new contacts in the child’s phone require parent approval.
Ask to Browse: Kids require parent permission to access new websites. This program “works seamlessly” in Safari across iPhone, iPad and Mac products.
Time Allowances: Daily time limits across entertainment, games and social media apps allow parents to manage their child’s screen time and set schedules around access at specific times of the day or week. Parents are given suggested starting points based on expert research and can easily adjust based on the individual circumstances of their child.
Screen Time: This feature “gives parents an at-a-glance view” of their child’s average device usage, which they can use to make adjustments as needed.
“These updates enhance Apple’s already industry-leading parental controls and underscore its commitment to building a safe and trusted platform for kids,” Apple said in a press release.
Apple said it continues to work with the American Academy of Pediatrics to adapt its technology and provide media guidance on the impact technology has on children. Apple launched a website to advise parents on implementing digital safety measures.
Concern about childhood technology use is growing among parents
Excessive screen time for children in a growing concern, especially in the post-pandemic era. Nearly half of parents say smartphones are more harmful to their children than they are beneficial, according to Pew Research Center.
A recent survey by The Kids Mental Health Foundation found that 8 in 10 parents said they actively manage their kids’ screen time. Of these parents, 58% said they set time limits and 34% said they use parental control apps.
A majority of parents across political affiliations support lawmakers and tech companies setting more rules to protect kids’ online activity.
