WhatsApp introduces parent-managed accounts for pre-teens

Meta-owned messaging platform, WhatsApp, has announced the introduction of parent-managed accounts designed for pre-teens, giving parents and guardians more control over how younger users access the platform.

The company, in a statement on its website, said the new feature was developed with input from families and experts and will allow parents to set up accounts for younger users while restricting their activities mainly to messaging and voice calls.

“WhatsApp is the trusted way families communicate because it’s simple, private, and reliable. With input from families and experts, we’re rolling out new parent-managed accounts that allow parents or guardians to set up WhatsApp for pre-teens, with new controls to limit their WhatsApp experience to messaging and calling.”

To activate the feature, parents will need the phone purchased for the child as well as their own device so both accounts can be linked during the setup process.

Once the account is created, parents or guardians will control key settings, including deciding who can contact the child and which groups the account can join. They will also be able to review message requests from unknown contacts and manage the account’s privacy settings.

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“The new parental controls and settings are gated by a parent PIN on the managed device. Only parents can access and change privacy settings, ensuring they are empowered to tailor their family’s experience.”

The company also stressed that conversations on the platform will remain protected by its security system.

“All personal conversations remain private and protected with end-to-end encryption, meaning no one—not even WhatsApp—can see or hear them. We’re providing more tools and insights for parents, particularly around groups, which you can learn more about here.”

According to the company, the feature reflects the growing role the platform plays in family communication.

“WhatsApp is already an important part of family life – whether updating extended family on big milestones, keeping up with after school plans or just letting loved ones know you’re home safe. As we gradually roll out parent-managed accounts over the coming months, we look forward to getting your feedback so we can continue building WhatsApp to provide the safest and most private way for families to connect.”