Google Family Link
- Fariha Khan
- March 16, 2017
- 755
Google is working to provide a more child friendly experience for Android following apps such as YouTube Kids. Releasing as invite only, Family Link enables parents to control what apps kids can use on managed devices and set screen limits and usage locks.
The Family Link apps enables parents to make a managed Google Account for their kid. By installing the app and signing into that account on a device will present parents with a number management options.
Read also: Google's "Smart" Jacket
With this app, parents have complete control over what children can download from the Play Store, tracking how much time is spent in those apps. Reports display usage on weekly and monthly increments. In addition, there is daily screen time limits as well as in addition to more general device bedtime that locks devices after fixed hours remotely.
The Android 7.0 or higher requirement is an important limitation considering how comparatively some devices are running Nougat at the moment. Besides, tablets, which parents may hand over to their kids than phones, have yet to extensively see the new version of the operating system.
US parents can request an invite to the Family Link early access program now. Google will ask for the feedback of early users on how to make the experience better prior to rolling it out widely.
