Summary

• Google's Android 16 Canary version introduces new parental control features aimed at improving child safety.
• These controls are not yet functional but may offer web filtering and app limitations.
• Enhanced child safety tools might be introduced in upcoming Android updates.

It’s well known that the internet and social media platforms aren’t always suitable environments for children. However, in our digitally connected world, kids' exposure to these spaces is unavoidable. Although smartphones come with basic safeguards or parental controls, Google’s recent Android 16 developer preview raises the bar significantly.

Recently, Google revamped its complex developer preview and beta testing procedure by introducing Canary builds of Android. These initial versions of future updates include potential new features, modifications, bug fixes, and more for developers to test on Pixel devices prior to a global rollout.

In the latest Android 16 Canary build, we're witnessing robust new parental control features designed to enhance child safety on devices. Just beneath all the Digital Wellbeing settings in the menu lies an entirely new option titled "Parental Controls," referencing digital ground rules and screen time limits.

From what we observe, Google is developing methods to improve child safety through easily accessible tools. While Android already includes screen time limits and similar features have been tested previously under the name "Supervision" tools, this seems like a significant step forward.

According to Android Authority, who discovered these features, the controls don't appear to function yet—at least for now. Considering this is an early Canary build of Android 16, development is still ongoing. Nevertheless, Google could be exploring ways to consolidate its existing functionalities while adding new ones specifically intended to safeguard children online.

Related ##### Google Play Will Let Parents Take Control of Kids' Purchases

Gain control over those in-app purchases.

PostsIf this new menu operates similarly to the Supervision tools in earlier Android 16 beta releases, we can expect a toggle to activate enhanced device protections for children. This could involve filtering web content, setting digital playground rules for apps and online services, and even blocking specific sites or explicit content within Google Search. Naturally, all these functions would require secure access, likely through a password or PIN.

As with any preliminary Android release, it's uncertain when (or if) these features will become available. That said, there’s a strong possibility these new parental controls in a dedicated settings menu could launch with the major September release of Android 16 or make their debut alongside Google's new Pixel 10 later this fall.

While Android does provide several ways to manage content on a child's device, its current parental controls definitely need improvement. The Family Link setup works adequately, but having a complete section devoted to these controls directly on the device makes perfect sense—and could be exactly what parents have been hoping for. For now, we’ll just have to wait and see whether this functionality becomes a reality soon.

The above is the detailed content of Android Could Soon Get a Parental Controls Upgrade. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!