Many parents choose to entrust their old electronic devices to their children, but this practice is not without risks. Between accidental purchases and uncontrolled access to certain features, it is essential to take precautions. Fortunately, solutions exist to supervise the use of these devices, thanks to tools offered by Apple and Google. Discover how to use them to ensure a safe experience for your children.
The 3 key points not to miss
- The importance of creating a specific child account on Apple and Google devices.
- The parental control features offered by Apple and Google to monitor and limit device usage.
- The advantages of Google’s Family Link app compared to Apple’s family sharing settings.
Create a child account on Apple devices
To secure the use of an Apple device by a child, it is recommended to create a specific iCloud account for them. This step may seem unusual, but it allows for effective control of the child’s online activities. Apple’s Family Sharing system allows up to six accounts to be linked, giving parents the ability to approve purchase requests and manage settings remotely.
Within Family Sharing, a child account is limited in terms of rights. Parents can thus control the apps the child wishes to download via the App Store, by receiving an authorization request on their own devices. Additionally, screen time can be restricted, and access to certain apps or sites can be completely blocked.
Family Link: Google’s alternative
For Android smartphone users, Google offers Family Link, an app dedicated to parents. Unlike Apple, Family Link requires installation on the parents’ device and allows for the creation or linking of Google accounts for children. This system provides strict supervision of device usage, with the ability to monitor the time spent on each app and control purchases made on the Play Store.
Family Link also allows for locating the child if this feature is activated and offers unique options like checking the remaining battery or remotely locking the device.
The benefits of these solutions for parents
Apple and Google’s parental control tools provide increased security in children’s use of devices, thus reducing the risks of accidental purchases or inappropriate access. By using these features, parents can not only supervise screen time but also teach their children responsible management of their digital data.
Whether with Apple’s Family Sharing or Google’s Family Link app, parents have effective resources to tailor their children’s digital experience to their values and family rules.
History of Apple and Google’s parental control solutions
Apple introduced the concept of Family Sharing with iOS 8, allowing families to share services and content while monitoring children’s activity. This feature has evolved with updates, integrating new parental control options, such as Screen Time and purchase restrictions.
Google, on the other hand, launched Family Link in 2017, aiming to provide parents with a simple and effective way to manage children’s access to Android devices. Family Link continues to evolve, adapting its features to the growing needs of modern families.