Overview
- Google announced Tuesday that Android Parental Controls will be moved from Pixel-only features into Android Settings for any phone that receives the Android 17 update, with rollout timing set by each device maker and carrier.
- Parents will be able to set daily screen-time limits, schedule downtime that locks devices, limit or block specific apps, and apply app-store rating filters from Settings.
- Play Store rating controls include options such as Everyone, Everyone 10+, Teen, Mature 17+, Adult only 18+, and an option to allow unrated apps, giving parents explicit content-threshold choices.
- The on-device controls are protected by a parent-set PIN and provide a direct path to the Google Family Link app, which offers School Time scheduling, Play Store purchase approvals and location alerts.
- Google also said it is increasing its U.S. digital wellbeing fund to more than $50 million to back programs that promote healthy tech habits and address social isolation among children and teenagers.