Google announced a major expansion of the parental control tools built into the Android system, in a move aimed at giving parents greater control over children’s use of smartphones.
These updates come within the Android 17 system, where time and application management features will be integrated directly into the system settings, making control easier and clearer without the need for additional applications in some cases. Thus, Google is focusing on supporting families in achieving a better balance between digital use and daily life, especially as children and teenagers increasingly rely on mobile devices for study and entertainment.
Screen time management
One of the most notable new additions is the ability to set daily limits for using the device, so that the phone automatically turns off when the allowed time expires. Parents can also set up Downtime schedules that shut down the device during specific periods such as bedtime or school.
These tools also provide additional flexibility, as additional time can be granted temporarily after the end of the daily limit by entering a parent PIN, ensuring complete control while maintaining flexibility when needed.
Application control
The new update also allows you to impose restrictions on applications individually, such as limiting the duration of use of each application or blocking it completely. Content filtering tools in the Google Play Store have also been enhanced, so parents can choose the highest age rating level allowed for downloads.
In addition, Android settings provide the ability to block websites or activate filtering of inappropriate content in browsers such as Chrome and Google Search, which enhances the protection of children while browsing.
Direct link
Google has confirmed that these new tools integrate with the Family Link system, which allows broader management that includes locating the child, approving purchases, managing applications, and even school mode that limits phone use during school times.
A safer environment
This step comes in light of increasing competition between technology companies to provide more advanced parental control tools, with a focus on protecting younger users and reducing digital addiction, while maintaining a flexible and family-friendly user experience.
