Instagram, owned by Meta, has launched a new feature called “Teen Accounts” to enhance online safety for minors by limiting the type of content and interactions available to users aged up to 16.
The new feature is designed to give parents more control over their children’s online activity. For users between 13 and 15 years old, the feature will be automatically enabled for new accounts, while existing accounts in this age group will transition to the new settings over the next 60 days in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
Key Features of Teen Accounts
Private by Default: All teen accounts will be set to private, meaning their content will only be visible to approved followers, preventing unwanted contacts from non-followers.
Restricted Messaging: Teen users will only be able to send messages to people they already follow or have a mutual connection with, reducing chances of unsolicited messages.
Sensitive Content Filters: Strict controls will reduce exposure to harmful content, such as violence or cosmetic surgery ads.
Parental Controls: Parents will have the ability to monitor what their children are seeing and who they are messaging.
Positive Content Exploration: Teens will be encouraged to explore constructive topics like sports, art, and music.
Additional Safety Measures
Daily Usage Limits: Teens will be prompted to take breaks if they use the app for more than 60 minutes.
Sleep Mode: Between 10 pm and 7 am, notifications will be automatically muted to encourage better sleep habits.
AI-Driven Age Verification: Artificial intelligence will identify underage users and move them to Teen Accounts accordingly.