Microsoft Edge gets new kids mode
Microsoft launched the new Kids Mode, which is integrated directly into the Microsoft Edge browser for Windows and Mac, as a free, easy-to-activate option that does not require much effort from parents to manage.
Kids mode can be enabled by selecting it from the Microsoft Edge browser account option, allowing children to access only approved websites.
- It is a free and protected online environment for children 12 years of age and below, Microsoft said, giving parents peace of mind when their children browse the web on a shared device.
- Microsoft designed the children's situation with regard to the possibility of parents giving a laptop to a child in order to allow him to browse the web.
Once the kid's mode is on, there is an option to choose between 5 to 8 or 9 to 12 years old, and the age groups include the highest level of tracking prevention and strict secure search to filter text, images, and videos from searches.
Microsoft has introduced 70 popular sites for children on the automatic blacklist, but parents must add any additional sites individually.
This situation restricts common Windows keyboard shortcuts to prevent children from exiting it, and an adult must enter the necessary data to exit the mode and return to normal browsing.
And if the child tries to view a site that is not on the list, there is a blocking page where they can request permission from the adult.
Given that it focuses on privacy within the specific device, Kids Mode does not require a Microsoft account, and it will not sync the list of approved websites across devices.
The 9- to 12-year-old also includes a news feed via the New Tab page in Kids Mode, with MSN curated articles for kids.
The articles focus on science, fun facts, and animals rather than the latest on the epidemic or geopolitics.
And once Kids Mode is enabled, there are also options to customize themes, colors, and the background of the new tab.
Microsoft collaborated with Disney and Pixar to offer special features, such as: The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, and many more.
The company said: When we looked at other content filtering offers out there in the market, we consistently found that most of them require very long signup or subscription process, and don't offer anything that catered to kids' needs.