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Messenger Kids is designed to help children communicate safely online.
Facebook's New Product Targets Kids
Facebook
December 4, 2017
Facebook's latest feature reaches out to a new user: kids. The communication app, Messenger Kids, targets children under 13 years old.
The app functions similarly to Facebook's current messenger app that lets users send photos, text messages and make video calls. The new app lets kids add emoji, sound effects and masks to their video calls.
This demographic was previously untapped by Facebook, partly due to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act, which mandates more precautions.
Facebook said data shows kids are already on devices and social media, so it aims to help make those inevitable interactions safe.
Messenger Kids puts the control in parents' hands. Children won't create a profile or provide a phone number. Parents' approval is needed to join and connect with friends.
For additional safety measures, the app is ad-free and monitors content for safety.
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