Apple products like iPhones and iPads are extremely popular among both parents and kids. However, granting young individuals access to the internet, social media applications, and online games can raise concerns.
HELLO! interviewed Apple to explore ways to ensure the safety of children and teenagers while using their devices. Apple aims to develop technology that empowers individuals and enhances their lives while prioritizing safety.
Enhancing Family Safety on Apple Devices
Erik Neuenschwander, Apple’s Director of User Privacy, emphasized Apple’s commitment to creating a safe technological environment for users.
Discover strategies for safeguarding children and teens on Apple devices below:
Monitoring App Usage
Screen Time provides insights into users’ and their children’s app usage, website visits, and overall device activity. Users can access weekly reports, track specific app usage, notifications, and device pickups.
Setting Boundaries and Expectations
Screen Time enables users to establish daily time limits for specific apps and websites. Parents can set exceptions for essential apps like Messages or educational tools. Children can request additional time, subject to parental approval.
Implementing Break Times
Downtime feature allows users to schedule app and notification restrictions during specific periods such as bedtime. Users can customize app accessibility during downtime.
Managing App Permissions
Parents can restrict the installation of new apps, including social media platforms, and disable the Safari browser. By enabling Ask to Buy, parents can oversee and authorize their children’s app downloads and in-app purchases directly from their devices.
Curated App Experience for Kids
The Made for Kids section on the App Store offers a curated selection of child-friendly apps. Apple rigorously reviews each app to ensure its appropriateness.
Setting App Limits
App Limits feature allows users to group apps and websites into manageable limits. Notifications alert children when they reach their time allocation, promoting responsible device use.
Regulating Communication
Communication Limits empower parents to control their children’s communication contacts, ensuring accessibility during designated times.
Ensuring Appropriate Content
Through Restrictions, parents can restrict app installations and in-app purchases. They can customize device settings to filter adult content and limit browsing to approved websites.
Enhancing Online Safety
Communication Safety feature identifies and alerts users to sensitive content in messages and media shared via Apple platforms, offering safety options and resources.
Promoting Eye Health
Screen Distance leverages the TrueDepth camera to encourage healthy viewing distances, reducing the risk of eye strain and myopia.
Educational Workshops
Apple’s Today at Apple program offers ‘Your Kids and Their Devices’ workshops globally. These sessions educate parents, guardians, and children on utilizing Apple’s safety tools effectively. Explore more at apple.com/today.