Messaging platform WhatsApp has announced a new feature that allows parents and guardians to create and manage accounts for pre-teen users. The update is designed to help families supervise how younger users communicate on the platform while maintaining privacy and security. The company said the feature will roll out gradually over the coming months.
The parent-managed accounts will be available for children under 13 years of age, or below the minimum age required to use WhatsApp in their country. To set up such an account, a parent or guardian must be at least 18 years old and use the latest version of WhatsApp on an Android or iPhone device.
How parent-managed accounts work
According to the company’s support information, in some regions app stores run by Apple or Google may automatically share a child’s age range with WhatsApp based on local legal requirements. This information may be used during the setup process instead of entering the age manually. If users believe the age range is incorrect, they can check device settings or visit the help centres of Apple or Google.
Parental controls and safety features
The new system includes several tools that allow parents to supervise their child’s activity. Guardians can decide who is allowed to contact the child and which groups the child can join. Parents can also review message requests from unknown contacts before interaction takes place.
Privacy settings can also be controlled from the linked parent account. Access to these settings on the child’s device is protected by a parent PIN, ensuring that only the parent or guardian can change them.
Privacy and encryption
WhatsApp stated that parent-managed accounts will still use the platform’s standard end-to-end encryption. This means messages and calls remain private and cannot be read or heard by WhatsApp itself. The company said the feature aims to support how families already use the platform to stay connected.
How to set up a WhatsApp account for pre-teens
Parents can create the account by following these steps:
Step 1: Install WhatsApp on the child’s phone
-
Download WhatsApp Messenger from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
-
Choose the language and tap Agree and continue.
-
Tap More options and select Create a parent-managed account.
-
Register and verify the child’s phone number.
-
Enter the child’s birthday and confirm the age.
-
Tap Continue to link the parent’s account.
Step 2: Link the parent’s phone
-
Scan the QR code displayed on the child’s phone using the parent’s device.
-
Tap the link to open WhatsApp.
-
Tap Agree and continue.
-
Verify you are an adult.
-
Create a 6-digit parent PIN and confirm it.
-
Tap Next and Done.
Step 3: Complete setup on the child’s device
-
Enter the parent PIN.
-
Tap Continue.
The child can now add their name and profile photo.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream LinkedIn | The Mainstream Facebook | The Mainstream Youtube | The Mainstream Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
