WhatsApp has unveiled a new parent managed account feature designed to allow pre teens take part in family group chats under closer parental supervision.
The new accounts will come with age appropriate default settings and are aimed at giving younger users a safer way to communicate online. The feature forms part of broader efforts by Meta to strengthen child safety across its platforms.
Under the new system, parents will be able to review message requests, manage group memberships, and monitor account privacy settings. The controls are intended to help families guide how younger children use messaging features and who can interact with them.
WhatsApp said the feature was developed with input from parents across different parts of the world. The company said the goal is to create a more secure and family friendly digital environment for younger users, while still allowing them to stay connected with relatives and participate in shared conversations.
The rollout is expected to begin soon. Once available, parent managed accounts will offer families a more controlled option for introducing children to online messaging, with parents retaining greater oversight of the experience.
