Meta announced new WhatsApp accounts for children under 13. These accounts include full parental controls. This aims to boost safety and control app use.
Parent-supervised accounts let kids only message and call. They cannot access other app features. They also won't see ads.
Account Setup Needs Parent Approval
Setting up an account needs both parent and child devices. The accounts link via a QR code. This helps verify the setup.
During setup, parents can get activity alerts. They get notices when the child adds, blocks, or reports contacts. This is according to TechCrunch.
Optional alerts include name or picture changes. Parents get alerts for new chat requests. They also get notices about joining or leaving groups. Deleting contacts or chats triggers alerts too.
Protect Settings with a PIN
All supervision settings are safe with a PIN. Parents set a six-digit PIN on their device. This stops changes without their okay.
Chats and calls use end-to-end encryption. This is the same security as all WhatsApp chats.
Some Features Are Limited
These accounts cannot use advanced features. This includes Meta AI or Channels. They also can't use disappearing messages in chats.
When a child gets a message from a new contact. They see an alert with sender info. This includes their country. It also shows shared groups.
The app blurs photos from unknown contacts. It can mute calls from unknown numbers.
More Control Over Chats and Groups
New chat requests go to a separate folder. Only parents can open it with their PIN. Group links have the same rules.
Before joining a group, the app shows info. This includes member count and admin names.
Option to Switch to a Normal Account Later
Meta said users will see a prompt. It lets them change the account to a normal one. This happens when they get older.
The company plans to let parents delay this change. They can postpone it for up to 12 months.
Gradual Global Rollout
The company started rolling out the feature. It is in a few countries now. More countries will get it in the coming months.
This move comes as countries consider limits. Denmark, Germany, Spain, and the UK may restrict social media for kids. This aims to protect children online.