WhatsApp launches parent-managed accounts for pre-teens amid safety concerns

Core Insights - WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, is introducing parent-managed accounts for pre-teens, allowing restricted messaging and calling features to address safety concerns regarding children's use of social media and chat apps [1] Technology - The initiative follows global concerns about the impact of social media on children, with countries like Australia implementing social media bans for teenagers due to mental health issues [1] - Parent-managed accounts will feature strict default settings, parental controls, and options for parents to oversee their children's messaging experiences [1] - Parents will have the ability to control who can contact the account, manage group memberships, review message requests from unknown contacts, and adjust privacy settings [1]