Messenger Kids
Developer(s) | Meta Platforms |
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Initial release | December 4, 2017 |
Operating system | Android, iOS |
Platform | Communication |
Available in | English |
Type | Instant messaging |
License | Freeware |
Website | messengerkids |
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Messenger Kids is a
Designed with a focus on child safety, the platform allows users to register using their first and last names rather than phone numbers. Parental oversight is a key feature, encompassing identity verification and the approval of contacts. The absence of in-app purchases and advertisements, coupled with a commitment to refraining from data collection for advertising purposes, distinguishes Messenger Kids. Importantly, children's accounts remain non-searchable on Facebook, and the platform does not automatically transition a child's account into a full-fledged Facebook account upon reaching the minimum registration age of 13. Noteworthy features of Messenger Kids include augmented reality filters and lenses, as well as the inclusion of games and educational content. [3][4]
Criticism
Despite its certification under the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), the platform has faced criticism. Concerns have been raised regarding the collection of message and photo contents from minors, with particular scrutiny directed at the perceived effort to engage users in the Facebook experience from a very young age.[4][5][6] Public figures, including UK's
References
- from the original on September 29, 2019. Retrieved September 18, 2018.
- ^ Perez, Sarah (July 19, 2018). "Messenger Kids launches in Mexico". Techcrunch. Archived from the original on March 5, 2021. Retrieved July 21, 2018.
- CBS Interactive. Archivedfrom the original on April 16, 2021. Retrieved December 10, 2017.
- ^ Oath Inc. Archivedfrom the original on April 13, 2021. Retrieved December 10, 2017.
- Wired. Condé Nast. Archivedfrom the original on February 24, 2021. Retrieved December 14, 2017.
- ^ Naughton, John (December 10, 2017). "Data-hungry Facebook seeks younger recruits". The Guardian. Archived from the original on April 16, 2021. Retrieved December 14, 2017.
- ^ Mason, Rowena (December 5, 2017). "Jeremy Hunt attacks Facebook over app aimed at children". The Guardian. Archived from the original on February 23, 2021. Retrieved December 14, 2017.
- ^ "Child experts file FTC complaint against Facebook kids' app". AP NEWS. October 3, 2018. Archived from the original on May 30, 2023. Retrieved May 30, 2023.