Google is introducing a new parental control setting called “school time” for Android phones and tablets, aimed at minimizing distractions for children while at school. This feature, already available on Fitbit’s Ace LTE smartwatch and soon to be rolled out to Samsung Galaxy watches, allows parents to set limits on their child’s device functionality during specific periods.
Mindy Brooks, the general manager for kids and families at Google, explained in a blog post that the company received feedback from parents who wanted to reduce digital distractions for their children at school while still having the ability to contact them in case of an emergency. With the school time setting, parents can choose to allow calls or texts from specific contacts.
When enabled, school time sets a child’s device to a dedicated home screen, limiting its functionality. Parents can further restrict access to specific apps during this time by using Google’s Family Link. This feature not only helps parents manage their children’s device usage but also addresses the concerns of educators who have long complained about the disruptive nature of phones and devices in the classroom, which can hinder teaching and contribute to teacher burnout.
This new parental control setting reflects Google’s commitment to promoting a healthier digital lifestyle for children and families. By providing parents with the tools to manage their child’s device usage, Google is addressing the growing concern of excessive screen time and its impact on children’s well-being. The school time setting not only allows parents to create a distraction-free learning environment but also ensures that children can still be reached in case of emergencies.
Furthermore, this initiative aligns with the broader social good movement, as it recognizes the importance of balancing technology use with other aspects of life, such as education and family time. By empowering parents to make informed decisions about their child’s digital habits, Google is fostering a sense of responsibility and mindfulness around technology usage.
In conclusion, Google’s introduction of the school time setting for Android devices demonstrates its commitment to helping parents minimize distractions and create a healthier digital environment for their children. By incorporating this feature into their devices, Google addresses the concerns of both parents and educators, while promoting a more balanced approach to technology use. Through initiatives like these, Google continues to prioritize the well-being of its users and contribute to the broader social good movement.
