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To safeguard the digital future of young users, Google is pioneering a series of advanced measures. These initiatives not only enhance online safety but also foster responsible digital citizenship for children and teenagers. Parents can now enjoy greater peace of mind as their kids explore the vast opportunities the internet offers in a secure environment.

Elevate Your Child’s Online Experience with Cutting-Edge Protection and Tools

Enhanced Age-Appropriate Experiences

In an era where digital engagement starts early, ensuring that online platforms are suitable for all age groups has become paramount. Google recognizes this need and has implemented several updates aimed at providing safer and more appropriate experiences for under-18 users. By defaulting to SafeSearch filters and restricting sensitive ad content, Google ensures that younger users encounter age-appropriate material. Additionally, features like gated access to age-restricted content on YouTube and Play, along with teen wellbeing protections, contribute to a healthier online ecosystem.Moreover, Google is introducing a new sensitive content warning feature within Messages. This opt-in function allows adults to manage alerts through Android settings, while it is automatically enabled for those under 18, offering parental oversight for supervised accounts. The challenge of accurately determining user age remains complex, yet Google is addressing this by piloting a machine learning-based age estimation model in the U.S., which will be expanded globally over time. This technology helps tailor experiences based on estimated age, enhancing protection and relevance for each user.

Innovative Family-Focused Controls

Recognizing that every family has unique needs, Google Family Link provides parents with versatile tools to manage their children's digital habits effectively. Recent updates prioritize essential tools for screen time management, making it easier for parents to oversee multiple kids' online activities across Android and Chrome devices. A notable addition is School Time, which allows parents to limit or adjust device functionality during school hours, minimizing distractions and promoting focus in class.Starting next month, parents can add approved contacts directly to their child’s device, limiting phone calls and text conversations to these contacts. This fosters safer communication and encourages intentional connections. Parents can also monitor recent transaction history when adding payment cards to their child’s Google Wallet, approving new cards, and managing tap-to-pay transactions. Such capabilities ensure financial transparency and security for young users.

Supporting Growth and Exploration

Google remains dedicated to delivering valuable experiences for youth, both at home and in educational settings. Products like Fitbit Ace LTE and Samsung Galaxy Watch for Kids, along with YouTube Kids, offer engaging and safe platforms for learning and play. For supervised Android users, parents can now enable tap-to-pay functionality, allowing children to make purchases in stores with approved payment methods. Parents retain control over transactions, viewing histories, and managing payment options.Furthermore, preparing teens for a future enriched by generative AI is crucial. Google’s approach emphasizes responsible AI usage, equipping teens with skills to harness this technology creatively and productively. Features such as AI Overviews, Gemini, and Circle to Search provide interactive learning experiences. Coming soon, Learn About uses generative AI to facilitate interactive education, while NotebookLM acts as a personalized research assistant, summarizing facts and explaining complex ideas based on selected sources.

Advancing Policy and Technology for Safer Online Environments

Google’s commitment extends beyond its platforms, encompassing collaboration with global stakeholders to develop robust policies that protect youth online. By investing in technologies that empower and safeguard young users, Google aims to create a digital world where children and teenagers can thrive safely. Continuous advancements in policy and technology underscore Google’s dedication to fostering a secure and enriching online experience for all.