Meta Platforms, Inc. has launched a new feature for its WhatsApp messaging service, enabling parents to create supervised accounts for children between the ages of 13 and 15 in specific markets. The feature, announced on Monday, is designed to provide a controlled introduction to digital communication for younger users. This development addresses longstanding requests from families for more oversight tools on one of the world’s most popular messaging platforms.
How the Supervised Accounts Function
The new system requires a parent or guardian to initiate the account setup from their own WhatsApp application. The adult’s phone number is linked to the child’s account, establishing a supervisory relationship. The child’s account operates under specific limitations intended to prioritize safety and simplicity.
Key controls limit the young user’s features primarily to messaging and voice or video calling with contacts approved by the parent. The platform’s broader social features, such as Status updates and community discovery, are not accessible through these managed accounts. Parents retain the ability to review and manage their child’s contact list directly from their own WhatsApp settings.
Background and Regulatory Context
This launch follows increasing global scrutiny of social media platforms and their impact on younger audiences. Many countries, including those in the European Union under the Digital Services Act, are implementing stricter regulations requiring tech companies to provide enhanced safety and privacy protections for minors. WhatsApp’s minimum age requirement remains 16 in Europe and 13 in most other countries, aligning with general data protection regulations.
The introduction of parent-managed accounts allows the platform to cater to families with pre-teen children seeking a first-step communication tool, while formally maintaining its age policy. It provides an alternative to children using standard accounts without parental oversight, a common practice previously.
Initial Rollout and Availability
The feature is being introduced gradually. It first became available to users in Brazil, where it was tested, and is now expanding to additional countries including Mexico and India. A global rollout is expected to follow, though Meta has not provided a specific timeline for all regions. The functionality is available on both Android and iOS devices through the latest version of the WhatsApp application.
To set up an account, a parent selects the “Create a child account” option within the app’s settings. They then verify their own phone number and proceed to configure the child’s account on a separate device. The process is designed to be completed without the child needing their own active SIM card during setup.
Implications for Digital Literacy and Safety
Child safety advocates have often emphasized the importance of guided introduction to online spaces. Features that allow for graduated responsibility are seen as a positive step in digital literacy education. By limiting functionality, the supervised account model aims to reduce exposure to potential risks like contact from strangers or access to unvetted public content while teaching core communication skills.
Technology analysts note that this move also positions WhatsApp more competitively in family-oriented communication, a segment where other apps have offered parental controls for some time. It represents a strategic adaptation to both market demands and the evolving regulatory landscape concerning children’s online safety.
Future Developments and Official Statements
In its official announcement, Meta stated that the supervised accounts feature is part of its ongoing commitment to providing safe online experiences. The company indicated it would continue to develop the tools based on feedback from families and experts. Future updates may include additional controls or reporting features to give parents more insight into their child’s account activity.
The expected next phase involves monitoring usage data and parental feedback from the initial launch countries to refine the service. Further expansion to other global markets is anticipated throughout the year, pending compliance checks with local regulations on data privacy and minor protection.
Source: Mashable
