YouTube Implements Parental Control Feature on TVs to Safeguard Children.

YouTube has experienced a remarkable year in terms of user engagement, reaching over one billion hours of content streamed daily just on televisions. However, the platform also hosts a significant amount of content that is not suitable for children, leading to the creation of a dedicated experience designed specifically for them. Now, YouTube is incorporating a password protocol that will prevent younger users from accessing any profile other than their child profile on the television.

In a community update, the new Parental Code feature was introduced, which will block children from accessing adult profiles within their home. This feature is optional and needs to be manually activated. Once activated, children will have to enter this code to access profiles intended for other family members. Additionally, they will be prompted to enter the code if they wish to use the video platform without logging in with a Google account.

Furthermore, the YouTube team will require the parental code if someone attempts to delete a shared television account. It has been clarified that activating this new feature will not affect other devices where the same account is used.

To enable the Parental Code feature, a series of steps must be followed within the YouTube app installed on the television. In the Settings page, a tab dedicated to the Parental Code will appear. After following the on-screen instructions, a four-digit code can be set. To deactivate this feature, the same code will need to be entered in the future. It is important to note that if the parental code is removed, anyone will be able to access YouTube without age restrictions and without needing to log in with a Google account. This also means that all adult profiles will be accessible.

The new safety-focused update is a response to concerns raised by some parents and guardians following Google’s decision to remove the YouTube Kids app icon in TV and smart device experiences, integrating all profiles under the same banner. In light of this, restricting non-child profiles via a code is seen as a positive step.

The Parental Code feature on YouTube is beginning to roll out and will be available to all users in the coming days.