Apple Watch For Kids Feature
Apple has introduced a new feature in India designed to enhance the safety and connectivity of younger users: the Apple Watch For Your Kids Feature. This functionality is available for the Cellular models of Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch Series 4 and later. If you’re a parent looking to keep track of your child without handing them a smartphone, this feature might be just what you need. Here’s a detailed look at what it offers, its eligibility requirements, and how to set it up.
What is the Apple Watch For Kids Feature?
The Apple Watch “For Your Kids” Feature is designed to provide a safer and more controlled environment for children who may not yet be ready for a smartphone. With this feature, parents can set up an Apple Watch for their kids with cellular connectivity, allowing them to make and receive calls, send messages, and use various apps—without needing an iPhone.
Key Features of the Apple Watch For Kids Feature
1. Contact Approval
Parents have complete control over which contacts their children can communicate with. This ensures that kids can only interact with approved numbers, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of unwanted communication.
2. Content Restrictions
The feature allows parents to set app limits and manage app downloads using Content Restrictions. The “Ask to Buy” feature also enables parents to approve or deny app purchases or downloads, keeping their child’s device content appropriate and secure.
3. Location Tracking
Kids can share their location with their guardians through the Find People app. This allows parents to track their child’s whereabouts in real-time, providing peace of mind and ensuring their safety.
4. Emergency SOS
In case of an emergency, kids can use the Emergency SOS feature to call emergency services. Parents will be notified if their child has listed them as an emergency contact, ensuring quick and reliable support in critical situations.
5. Schooltime Mode
The Schooltime Mode enables Do Not Disturb and restricts app access during school hours, helping to minimize distractions. Parents can schedule this mode in advance to align with their child’s school schedule.
6. Health and Fitness Tracking
The Apple Watch “For Your Kids” Feature has been optimized for kids, with workout modes like Outdoor Run, Outdoor Walk, and Outdoor Cycle specifically tuned for younger users. The watch tracks Move minutes rather than kilojoules burned and provides personalized Activity goals to encourage a healthy lifestyle.
Eligibility and Setup
1. Device Requirements
The Apple Watch For Kids Feature is available on the Cellular models of Apple Watch SE or Apple Watch Series 4 and later. It requires pairing with an iPhone 8 or later model.
2. Cellular Plan
Currently, Reliance Jio is the cellular provider offering plans compatible with this feature in India. The plan will provide a dedicated phone number for the child’s Apple Watch, enabling all the communication and connectivity features.
3. Apple ID and Setup
Kids can have their own Apple ID to access services such as Calendar, Photo albums, and Reminders. Parents can set up the Apple Watch and configure it through their iPhone. This process ensures that the device is personalized and linked correctly to the child’s Apple ID and phone number.
Benefits of the For Your Kids Feature
The Apple Watch “For Your Kids” Feature offers a practical solution for parents who want to monitor and stay connected with their children while allowing them a degree of independence. It provides a balance between safety and freedom, making it a valuable tool for modern families. By using the Apple Watch “For Your Kids” Feature, parents can ensure that their children remain reachable and secure without the need for a full-fledged smartphone.
Conclusion
The Apple Watch For Your Kids Feature brings new possibilities for keeping children safe and connected. With comprehensive parental controls, location tracking, and emergency features, it addresses many of the concerns parents might have about giving their kids their first device. If you’re considering this option, ensure your Apple Watch meets the necessary requirements and set up a Reliance Jio cellular plan to take full advantage of these new features.