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Google launches a new YouTube Kids app for Android and iOS

Google officially announced the launch of YouTube Kids, content appropriate for kids.

Youtube kids app icon

The world’s greatest babysitter keeps getting better. Earlier today, Google introduced the newest member to their family by announcing the launch of the YouTube Kids app available for free on Google Play and Apple’s App Store. This will be the company’s “first Google product built from the ground up with little ones in mind.”

Traditionally, the problem with letting children watch videos on YouTube was that in most cases, kids would stumble across inappropriate content. I mean, I’m 31 and I can tell you that I’ve had my fair share of things I shouldn’t have seen. It’s a scary world out there, and trust me, it’s being documented on the viral video haven. “The app makes it safer and easier for children to find videos on topics they want to explore.”

YouTube Kids brings a whole new approach to accessing content. One of the main things they focused on was having videos that are only deemed fit for kids. They also spruced up the user experience by adding larger images, bold icons, and built-in voice search. Basically making it easier for kids to use the app. Although, experience would tell us they’ll have no problem learning the new format. The app still incorporates all the common features you would find on the traditional YouTube app, such as feature videos, playlists, and channels.

Youtube kids screenshot

They even included options for parents, you know, when things get a little out of hand. Check out some of the parental controls below:

  • Timer: Let the app be the bad guy with a built-in timer that limits how long a child can watch Youtube. The app alerts your child when the session is over, so you don’t have to. (You’re welcome. 😉 )
  • Sound settings: Sometimes you need a little peace and quiet! You have an option to turn off background music and sound effects, that way your kids can keep watching while you catch a breather.
  • Search settings: If you’d rather limit your children to just the pre-selected videos available on the home screen, you can turn off search.
  • Product feedback: Our goal is to improve YouTube Kids all the time, so we’ve included a space for you to give us your feedback.

It’s been a long time coming, but Google finally got the job done. I’m sure parents from all over will be thrilled that their children will never have to stumble across an inappropriate video on YouTube again. For more information, check out the announcement here.

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Kevin is KnowTechie's founder and executive editor. With over 15 years of blogging experience in the tech industry, Kevin has transformed what was once a passion project into a full-blown tech news publication. Shoot him an email at kevin@knowtechie.com or find him on Mastodon or Post.

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