WhatsApp is to introduce parent-managed accounts for its messaging platform, bringing new controls to the platform aimed at users under 13 years of age.
The new accounts will allow parents or guardians to set up WhatsApp for preteens with strict default settings and the ability to limit accounts to messaging and calling.
Parents can manage a child account by linking it to their own WhatsApp account and setting a parent PIN on the child’s device that gives them the ability to control adding contacts, approving groups they can join, and review message requests from unknown contacts.
However, parents will not be able to see the content of messages on their child’s account or intercept any communications. Like regular WhatsApp accounts, messages for managed accounts are end-to-end encrypted and cannot be viewed by third parties, including WhatsApp.
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The move is in response to feedback WhatsApp says it received from parents who want to use the service with their younger children.
“WhatsApp is already an important part of family life – whether updating extended family on big milestones, keeping up with after school plans or just letting loved ones know you’re home safe,” Meta said in a blog post announcing the plans.
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The child-focused accounts will be limited to messaging and calls only, which means children will not have access to Meta AI – a previous concern raised by online safety charities – WhatsApp’s Channels feature or status updates.
They will also be restricted from using disappearing messages in individual chats, linking another device to their account such as a web browser on a laptop, and sharing their location. Chat and app locks will also be unavailable to managed accounts.
The new managed accounts will be gradually rolled out to users in the coming months.
