Google introduces School Mode and enhanced safety features for kids

Key Points:

• New “School Mode” for focused learning.
• Enhanced parental controls on YouTube and Family Link.
• Default safety settings for users under 18.

Google is rolling out new features to help parents manage their children’s screen time and online safety. As digital devices become more integral to kids’ lives, these updates aim to create a healthy balance between online and offline activities.

School Mode for Focused Learning

Next year, Google will introduce “School Mode” for Android devices. This feature allows parents to set a restricted home screen during school hours to reduce distractions and help kids focus on their studies. Through the Family Link app, parents can control which apps are accessible and who can contact their children during this time.

Enhanced Parental Controls

For teenagers, Google is adding new supervision tools on YouTube. Parents will soon be able to link their accounts with their teens, allowing them to monitor usage and set rules. Family Link’s supervised mode will also be available for all age groups, offering flexibility in managing apps, screen time, and digital activities.

Default Safety Settings

Google is strengthening its default safety settings for users under 18. These include enabling SafeSearch, applying content restrictions, and turning off autoplay on YouTube. New safeguards are being added to limit the recommendation of potentially harmful videos, especially those that could affect teens’ body image and mental health.

By introducing these features, Google aims to provide a safer and more controlled digital environment for children and teenagers, ensuring they can use technology responsibly and safely.