Facebook’s (NASDAQ:FB) brand-new product is targeting kids. Messenger Kids app aims to connect kids with friends and family, much like the regular Messenger app, but with a number of parental controls and safeguards meant to protect children from the greater online world.
According to Facebook, the app was co-developed with parents, kids, and “expert advisors” who specialize in child development, online safety, and children’s media.
The app works like this: a parent can set up their child’s Messenger Kids account and will have parental controls through their own Facebook account. Parents can approve who may communicate with their children, and see when those contacts are online. Like any sort of messaging service, there will be access to emojis, stickers, and photo/video filters, however, they have all been specified as kid-appropriate.
The Messenger Kids app marks Facebook’s first step towards getting children under the age of 13 (the age limit required by Facebook) started in the online world. Having a Messenger Kids account does not create a stand-alone Facebook account for the child; rather it is linked to the parent’s account.
Messenger Kids complies with the Children’s Online Privacy and Protection Act (COPPA), and will not include any ads or in-app purchases. Facebook says that the child’s information will not be used for ad targeting.
The goal of the Messenger Kids app is to familiarize kids with Facebook and its services so that when they reach age 13, they will want to create their own Facebook account.
Featured Image: depositphotos/ArturVerkhovetskiy
