TL;DR:

– Google has expanded the capabilities of its Family Link parental controls.
– New features include screen time tools that allow parents to monitor and limit their child’s interaction with their device.
– Parents can now approve specific contacts to ensure safer communication.
– Additional updates offer the ability to block or allow requests from Google Play, and more control over app downloads and access.

Article Brief

Google is enhancing security and control for families with the expansion of its Family Link parental control system. Screen time monitoring tools are one of the significant updates, and they give parents the power to observe how long their child is interacting with their device. If necessary, they can set boundaries on this screen time for a healthier digital environment.

In a move towards creating safer channels of communication, Google has also added new provisions for approving contacts. Parents can now stipulate specific contacts that their child is allowed to stay in touch with.

Furthermore, Google has supplied parents with greater control over the usage of apps. Parents can now handle approval requests from Google Play, deciding what apps their child can download and have access to.

Personal Opinions

This feels like a necessary step given the digital age we live in. Our children are exposed to much more online content than we could have ever imagined – having the tools to ensure they are safe, balanced, and interacting with appropriate contacts is vital. That said, these measures must be used diligently and responsibly. Measures of control can be beneficial, but as with all tools, they must be used wisely. What do you think? Is Google doing enough? Do you believe these tools can guarantee the safety of our children online?

References

Source: TechCrunch