Google Enhances Parental Controls for Galaxy Smartphones with Family Link Update

Google has introduced upgrades to its Family Link app, providing enhanced parental controls for Galaxy smartphones and tablets. The updated app features a redesigned user interface and introduces new features aimed at helping parents manage their children’s device usage.

The new Family Link app focuses on limiting screen time and managing contacts for kids. Parents can establish a “School Time” schedule that restricts device use during school hours, a feature that first appeared on the Galaxy Watch 7 For Kids.

The app now includes a revamped “Screen Time” tab, which displays essential information such as device lock controls and time limits. Additionally, a “Controls” tab manages access settings for Chrome, Google Play, Search, and YouTube, while a “Location” tab allows parents to monitor the location and battery status of their children’s devices.

Another key feature is the content safety mechanism, which protects kids from receiving messages with sensitive content. This feature is opt-out by default for users under 18, while older users can opt-in. Starting in March 2025, parents will also be able to manage contacts on their children’s devices.

Google plans to roll out a Google Wallet experience for kids this spring, allowing children to make payments via NFC while enabling parents to oversee their accounts and transaction histories. Future updates to Family Link will include features designed to educate teens about generative AI technologies.