WhatsApp Introduces Preteen Accounts With Strict Parental Controls

WhatsApp is introducing a new account type designed for younger users. The feature, called preteen accounts, allows children to use the messaging platform under strict parental supervision. The move comes amid increasing global concerns about children’s safety and mental health on social media platforms.

What Are WhatsApp Preteen Accounts?

Preteen accounts are restricted WhatsApp accounts that must be created and managed by a parent or guardian. These accounts allow children to use WhatsApp primarily for messaging and calling while limiting several features that could expose them to online risks.

Parents link their WhatsApp account to the child’s account and gain control over privacy settings, contacts, and message requests.

How Parents Set Up a WhatsApp Preteen Account

Meta says the setup process requires both the parent’s device and the child’s device. During the setup, the parent must authenticate the account using a QR code verification process.

The parent opens WhatsApp on their device and scans a QR code displayed on the child’s device. This links the two accounts and enables parental controls.

Key Features of Preteen Accounts

1. Parental Control Over Contacts

Parents can decide who is allowed to message their child and block or approve new contacts. Unknown messages are sentto a request folder that parents can review.

2. Control Over Group Participation

Parents or guardians can approve or deny group invitations and manage which groups their child can join.

3. Restricted Features

Access to features such as channels, status updates, Meta AI, and disappearing messages is disabled for these accounts. The goal is to keep the experience focused on simple messaging and calls.

4. Locked Privacy Settings

Children cannot change privacy settings without a parent’s PIN or approval. This prevents them from accidentally exposing personal information.

5. End-to-End Encryption Remains

Even with parental supervision, WhatsApp chats remain end-to-end encrypted, meaning the platform itself cannot read messages.

Why Did WhatsApp Introduce This Feature?

Traditionally, WhatsApp required users to be at least 13 years old to create an account. However, many younger users still sign up using incorrect birth dates.

The new preteen accounts aim to provide a safer environment for those younger users by giving parents direct control over how the app is used.

Can Kids Upgrade to a Normal WhatsApp Account?

Yes. When the child reaches the required age, the account can transition to a standard WhatsApp account. Parents may also continue supervising the account if they choose.

Rollout and Availability

WhatsApp has started rolling out the feature globally. Availability will expand gradually across devices and regions over the coming months.

Would you allow your child to use WhatsApp with these parental controls? Tell us in the comments.