For parents, the dilemma of whether or not to set up their children’s Google account as a child’s account and suffer the consequences is a real one. Google is finally recognizing that one of the biggest drawbacks to this experience is being linked to YouTube Kids. The company has just announced that it will soon begin testing “supervised experiences” that will allow parents to allow their preteens to access YouTube in a controlled manner.
What “supervised experiments” on YouTube offer
Google says that they will look more like YouTube than YouTube Kids. Parents will have the option to choose between three different content settings: Explore, explore more, and Most of YouTube.
To explore will feature a wider range of videos suitable for viewers over the age of nine, including vlogs, music videos, educational content and more. The second configuration, Explore more, will include a larger set of videos that are generally suitable for viewers over the age of 13. Lastly, Most of YouTube, will contain almost all videos, except age-restricted content (over 18), including sensitive topics.
Google says it will use a mix of user input, machine learning and human review to determine which videos will be included in each content setting.
It is important to note that the experience will be restricted and the availability of resources will be different depending on each content setting. For example, live streams will be disabled in the Explore setting, and features like comments, live chat, all creation options (channel, posts, stories, shorts, etc.) and channel members will not be available.
In addition to content settings, parents will have access to viewing and search history and will also be able to set screen timers through Google’s Family Link.
How to set up “supervised experiments” on YouTube
Unfortunately, you will still have to wait before trying the new experience, as it will only be available in “early beta” in the coming months. The beta will only be available to families with children under the age of 13, who are under 13 in most countries (exceptions). Parents with teenagers will have to wait a little longer.
If your child already has a supervised Google Account, you will not need to take any additional steps to access that experience. You will probably be informed by email if you are selected to be part of the initial beta.
What about YouTube Kids? Is he leaving?
No, YouTube Kids will not end, and Google still recommends the standalone app for younger children, which offers a simpler experience, but a smaller collection of videos. There is also a promise to bring more features to the app, one of which is the highly requested option for parents to allow access to specific videos and channels.
If you’re confused between “supervised experiences” and YouTube Kids, check out Google’s handy comparison table.
What about YouTube Music for kids?
The end of Google Play Music did not go well for users; they don’t think YouTube Music is a valid alternative. Although there are many differences to be discussed, the relevant one in this context is that – unlike GPM – YouTube Music is not available for children under 13. This left some families with no option but to switch to alternatives like Spotify.
Although YouTube Music is not compatible with the beta launch, we are working to bring it there in the future.
– TeamYouTube (@TeamYouTube) February 24, 2021
Fortunately, it looks like YouTube is working to fix this. As mentioned in the tweet above, YouTube Music for Kids should arrive when “supervised experiences” leave beta – exactly when, however, no one knows.
