Google wants to make it easier for parents to see which apps are family friendly. So the search giant announced a new program called “Designed for Families,” which designates which apps in its Google Play online store are safe for children. It wants to support app makers that are tailoring their content to “educate and entertain” kids.
Approved apps and games will be eligible for upcoming family-focused promotions on Google Play. In other words, parents will soon be able to discover age-appropriate content and make more informed choices about what goes on their Android devices. It’s a smart move on Google’s part, as the company notes there are already “thousands” of Android developers creating apps and games for families and children. In the company’s own words, these apps and games “broaden the mind and inspire creativity.” They don’t just feature age-appropriate content; the user interfaces are designed for children, and they often include interactive features that educate as well as entertain.
To earn the family friendly designation, app makers must go through a review process. That includes receiving a rating of “Everyone” or “Everyone 10+” from the Entertainment Software Rating Board, which evaluates computer and video games. Those apps must also comply with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act, which provides safeguards for children younger than 13. Developers who want to participate in the program can now designate their apps as family-friendly in the Google Play Developer Console. After selecting to have the app participate, Google will review the application to make sure it meets all the requirements.
Pocket app has developed a number of apps for Kids and entertainment, it will be interesting to develop more and more android apps in this program.
