China turns on ‘minors mode’ that ensures kids only see wholesome socialist content online
Summary
China has implemented a new ‘Minors Mode’ designed to ensure that children under 18 only encounter content deemed wholesome and appropriate. The initiative, overseen by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), requires device manufacturers and content providers to collaborate on this strategy, which effectively curates online experiences based on age. The mode features different content types for various age groups, from toddlers to teenagers, aimed at promoting core socialist values.
Launched on April 29, the minors mode comes pre-installed on new smartphones from several major brands, and older devices will receive it through over-the-air updates. Parents can easily enable this mode, set time limits for usage, and receive insights on their children’s online activities.
Key Points
- The ‘Minors Mode’ limits children’s exposure to content considered inappropriate, ensuring they access age-appropriate material.
- The initiative is based on a CAC proposal that stressed curating digital content to align with socialist values.
- Major smartphone brands like Xiaomi, Honor, and Huawei have integrated this mode into their devices at high speed.
- Parents can activate the minors mode with a single click, imposing time limits and ensuring breaks from screen time.
- Similar efforts in other countries, such as Australia and the UK, have faced challenges, raising questions about effectiveness in safeguarding children online.
Why should I read this?
If you’re interested in how different countries approach online safety for children, this article gives you a glimpse into China’s latest initiative. Their control over digital content access isn’t just about protection; it’s steeped in ideology. Worth the read if you want to understand the balance between tech, parenting, and state influence in the digital space!