This guide explains how to set up Android parental controls and content filtering. It gives you more control over what your kids do, see and buy on the phone or tablet. You can never be too careful. If you’ve bought a new device for kids or just want added security, we’ve got you covered.
Children will be children and eventually they may do something they shouldn’t. Fortunately, there are countless tools for parents. Gadgets for peace of mind when you give kids a mobile device.
Below, we will share useful information about adding passwords to Google Play Store or preventing unauthorized purchases by your children. Not to mention that you have control over the type of content viewed on their device. These are Google’s built-in tools.
All Android devices have parental controls or some form of content filtering. Whether this is from Google or from manufacturers. Or you can download third-party apps designed with that in mind. Starting with Android 5.0 and above, Google offers users powerful controls and even the option of guest mode (multi-user account) for kids. Not to mention that all Amazon Kindle tablets have controls on Amazon Freetime.
It is important for parents to set restrictions on an Android smartphone or tablet. We’ll start with content filtering, then move on to setting a password and a few steps you can take. This will provide the best experience safe and secure.
Parental Controls and Content Filtering on Android
Frankly, Google does not allow anything and everything to enter the Play Store. Even if Apple is more comfortable saying about the things that are available for download. However, they still have a system that works pretty well. Take things a step further though and use the steps below to filter the content.
Once here, flip the switch to turn on Parental Controls. You will need to add a pin, confirm that pin, and then manually configure parental controls for multiple categories.
As you can see, Google breaks down content by apps and games, movies, music, and more. That way you can allow a certain level of games and something different for movies and TV. Choose what works best for you and your family. With groups of: Everyone, Everyone 10+, Teen, 17+ Adults, Adults Only, or Allow All. Or TV ratings you’re already familiar with.
It’s not the most advanced tool and won’t prevent everything from slipping through the cracks, but it’s a start. Parents can disable the display of certain apps by maturity level. By default, it shows everything, but you can easily swipe the bar to change this. Note that nothing on the device will be lost. You must do this manually later if necessary.
As we said above, this won’t stop everything from getting through, but it’s the first step many parents need to take. For more details on Google’s content and privacy policy click here. If you see something inappropriate, you can always flag it for review. Keep this in mind.
Add Password for Purchases
The second step parents will want to take is to add a password to the Google Play Store to prevent unauthorized purchases. This can protect you from kids buying tons of apps (or in-app purchases) without your permission. Or prevent them from downloading things you don’t want in front of them.
For more information on adding passwords to your device and Google Play Store, follow our guide above. Essentially, you only require authentication for each purchase. We recommend setting this to prompt for a password for EVERY purchase. Not just once or every 30 minutes. A child can spend a lot in 30 minutes after entering your password once.
You can find lots of great apps, games or content for kids on the Google Play Store. There’s some for everyone. There’s even a YouTube Kids app just for your kids. Make sure your loved ones don’t see content they shouldn’t see, can’t buy, and are safe and protected. Fortunately, Google makes all of this pretty easy to understand, set up, and customize.
