How to Use Parental Controls on Smartphones
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Technology Buyers Guide
Parental controls can help manage your child’s smartphone use, limit screen time, and protect them from inappropriate content. Here's a detailed guide for Android, iPhone, and Samsung devices.
1. Control Access to Apps and Content
For Android Users
- Set Up Multiple Accounts
- Go to: Settings > System > Multiple Users.
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Toggle "Multiple users" on, and create a child’s profile.
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Guest Mode
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Swipe down and tap the blue User Icon, then select Guest Mode to restrict access.
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Google Family Link App (Free)
- Parent's Phone: Download the Google Family Link App.
- Child's Phone: Download the Family Link App for Children and Teens.
- Features:
- Approve or block apps.
- Monitor usage via a dashboard.
- Set content filters for apps like YouTube.
For iPhone Users
- Family Group Setup
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Go to: Settings > Screen Time, and add your child to the family group.
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App Limits
- Set daily limits for categories like Social Media or Games.
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Access: Settings > Screen Time > App Limits.
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Content Restrictions
- Restrict adult content or explicit media.
- Access: Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions.
For Samsung Galaxy Users
- Kids Mode
- Swipe down to access Quick Menu and enable Kids Mode.
- Set PIN to lock restricted mode.
- Access educational apps via Galaxy Apps store.
2. Limit Screen Time
Android (via Family Link)
- Set daily limits and a "bedtime" schedule.
- If your child requests extra time, approve or deny it via your phone.
iPhone
- Configure Downtime and App Limits:
- Settings > Screen Time > Downtime.
- Settings > Screen Time > App Limits.
- Approve extra time requests directly on your device.
3. Protect Your Child’s Privacy
For Android Users
- Prevent Google from storing activity data:
- Manage settings in the Family Link App.
- Block apps and games for specific age groups (e.g., "10 and up").
For iPhone Users
- Turn off location services for apps:
- Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Location Services.
- Limit app access to photos, microphone, and Bluetooth data.
Tips for Effective Monitoring
Stay Involved
- Monitor gaming chats and app usage to protect against inappropriate content or interactions.
Communicate
- Talk to your child about screen time boundaries and privacy concerns.
Review Settings Regularly
- Adjust controls as your child grows and gains more responsibility.
Quick Comparison of Tools
| Feature | Android (Family Link) | iPhone (Screen Time) | Samsung Galaxy (Kids Mode) |
|-----------------------------|-----------------------------|-----------------------------|------------------------------|
| App Blocking | | | |
| Screen Time Limits | | | |
| Content Filters | | | |
| Privacy Settings | | | |
| Separate User Profiles | | | |
With these controls, you can create a safer digital environment while encouraging responsible smartphone use.
