Google is bringing a very interesting feature that will allow parents to better control their children’s use of mobile devices while they are at school or even during specific times of the day.
Recently announced, the “School time” feature will now also be supported on a range of Android devices, including Samsung Galaxy phones, tablets and smartwatches, over the next year.
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“School Time” feature can be used at any time
The “School Time” feature was initially launched on the Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch in May and is now being expanded to reach more devices. The feature aims to minimize distractions in the classroom by allowing parents to restrict their children’s access to certain apps during school hours.
Even with this as the main objective, the fact that parents can choose these times can also work to prevent access at specific times such as during activities during the day and even at bedtime.
Additionally, School Time can limit phone calls and message notifications from specific contacts, ensuring that unwanted people cannot reach your children.
Parents will be able to manage these settings through Google’s Family Link app, a tool already known for helping monitor and control the use of mobile devices by children and teenagers.
When the feature is activated, it displays a dedicated home page and notifications are very limited. It is also possible to select which apps remain available and which cannot be accessed. This is because they can still be used to make emergency calls or to call their parents if necessary.
Additional resources for focus and supervision
Even for teens who aren’t supervised by the Family Link app, Google offers a solution. They can use Android devices’ Focus mode, which lets them block notifications and avoid distractions during periods of increased concentration.
Additionally, Google announced that later this summer it will allow parents to link their YouTube accounts to those of their teens. This additional functionality will allow parents to more closely monitor their children’s activity on the platform, providing an extra layer of supervision and online safety.
List of compatible devices is not yet certain
While Google’s announcement is welcome news and marks a step forward in managing students’ mobile device usage, the company has yet to specifically disclose which Android phone and tablet models will be compatible with the “School Time” feature.
However, this initiative is already being seen as a positive step towards a more controlled educational environment free from technological distractions.
The tech community is also keeping an eye on Apple’s response, as it has a similar feature called Schooltime available exclusively on its smartwatches. It will be interesting to see if Apple decides to expand its functionality to other devices, following the trend set by Google.
Source: Google
Source: https://www.hardware.com.br/noticias/google-esta-trazendo-recurso-tempo-de-escola-para-smartphones-e-tablets.html
