Google is testing a significant feature for its standard messaging application on Android, Google Messages, aimed at providing parents more control over their children’s messaging activities. Here are the details:

Google Messages testing parental control feature

This new feature will allow parents to prevent their children from sending messages without their approval. With RCS support, Google Messages will become even more functional with this new control mechanism for parents.

The feature, requiring parents to approve their children’s messages before they are sent, aims to enhance children’s digital safety. Here are the functionalities of the new feature:

• Pending Approval Messages: If a message requires parental approval, a warning will appear next to the message in the Google Messages app stating, “Get approval from your parent to send.” This will provide clear information about the status of the message to both parents and children.
• SMS and RCS Support: The parental control feature will be applicable for both standard SMS messages and Rich Communication Services (RCS) messages. This will cover a broad spectrum of communication methods offered by Google Messages.

This new parental control will integrate with Google’s Family Link app, which is already used to manage children’s app usage times and various digital permissions.

As the feature is still in development, the exact launch date and detailed mechanics are limited. However, Google plans to offer this feature to its users in upcoming releases.

This innovation aims to provide children with a safer way to navigate the digital world while giving parents more control over their children’s online interactions. Google aims to protect children and offer peace of mind to parents with this new feature.

What do you think of this new feature? Do you think it’s necessary? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.