WhatsApp unveils supervised accounts for kids below 13; here’s how to set it up

WhatsApp has introduced parent-managed accounts for children under 13, allowing limited access to messaging and calling features under adult supervision, the company said in a blog post. The move marks a significant policy shift for the platform, which earlier maintained a minimum age requirement of 13 in India and higher thresholds in some regions.

Parental supervision with built-in restrictions

The new accounts come with multiple safeguards designed to limit how younger users interact on the platform. Features such as Meta AI, Channels, Status updates, Chat Lock, App Lock, linked devices, location sharing, view-once messages and disappearing messages in individual chats are not available. WhatsApp also said advertisements will not be shown on these accounts.

Privacy settings locked by default

Under the managed system, privacy settings are automatically restricted so that only saved contacts can view profile details such as photos and last-seen status. Only parents can modify these settings. By default, only saved contacts can send messages, and participation in group chats is controlled by parents. Messages or group invitations from unknown contacts are directed to a ‘Requests’ folder, which requires parental approval.

Security and verification safeguards

All parental controls are protected by a six-digit PIN, which must be entered to make any changes to account settings, ensuring an additional layer of oversight and security.

How parents can set up the accounts

• Install WhatsApp on the child’s device
  
• Tap ‘More options’ and select ‘Create a parent-managed account’
  
• Register the child’s phone number and confirm their age
  
• Link the child’s account to the parent’s WhatsApp by scanning a QR code
  
• Parent verifies identity
  
• Set up a six-digit PIN to manage parental controls
  

Gradual rollout across devices

WhatsApp said the feature will be introduced in phases and will be available on both Android and iPhone devices, reflecting the company’s broader push to expand safety-focused features for younger users.