Google Enhances Family Features for Safety and Communication
In recent weeks, Google has unveiled plans to enhance its safety and communication tools for families, a move that reflects the growing need for effective digital parenting solutions. Though updates have been modest in frequency, these impending changes aim to improve how families stay connected and safeguarded in their online interactions.
Improved Family Link Functionality
The first significant update involves Google Family Link. The interface has undergone a substantial redesign aimed at streamlining navigation for parents. A new “Screen Time” tab consolidates various management tools into one location, simplifying the process of monitoring usage. Furthermore, account management options are now located within the Controls tab—an enhancement designed to facilitate supervision across multiple devices and accounts seamlessly.
Introducing School Time Feature
An exciting addition is the rollout of the School time feature on select Android devices. This innovation is specifically crafted to minimize distractions by limiting phone functionalities during class times while also silencing notifications when they aren’t needed. Users of supported Android smartphones and tablets can make use of this feature, which further extends compatibility with wearables like Fitbit Ace LTE and Galaxy Watch designed for children.
READ: Samsung Expands Galaxy Watch Software Features for Younger Users
Contactless Payments Made Safe
Younger users under parental supervision will soon gain access to contactless payment capabilities via their phones. moms or dads will have the option to add credit or debit cards directly into their child’s Google Wallet—empowering kids with cashless payment methods while giving parents oversight over spending activities through transaction history reviews and card management permissions.
Managing Contacts Smarter
This month will see another crucial update: an introduction of parent-controlled contact lists starting next month. This feature empowers parents by allowing them to oversee which contacts their children can communicate with via calls or texts on Android devices actively managing allowed connections enhances safety during unsupervised communications.