Microsoft has launched a new Kids Mode feature on its Chromium-based Edge web browser to help parents to keep their children safe online.
The new feature offers a convenient browsing mode inside Microsoft Edge that is designed especially for kids. The children-friendly mode and safety guardrails make Kids Mode a secure online place for children to safely explore the web, the American multinational technology company stated through its blog post.
The Kids Mode comes with features like custom browser themes, kid-friendly content, Bing SafeSearch and a password requirement to exit. It also provides browsing based on an allowed list which can be edited by parents over time. The mode does not need to create a child account or profile.
As per reports, currently, the Kid Mode on Edge browser is available in the US and only on Windows and macOS. The technology giants have not yet revealed when the feature will be available in other markets.
Under the new feature, Microsoft allows parents to set an age limit. For example, the 5-8 years selection will show a simplified browser, strict Microsoft BingSearch, and changeable themes. The 9 and older age selection shows more content for kids and also has security features like SafeSearch. It is also worth noting that until the user exit from Kids Mode, the Edge browser will always open in Kids Mode.
To get started with the new mode, parents will need to click on the profile switcher in the browser. There they can select the browse in Kids Mode. Users do not need to be signed into the browser to use the mode, but Microsoft suggests signing in as it allows the Kids Mode settings to sync across devices.
In the current situation, as the world is relying on digital tools for education and entertainment a dedicated Kids Mode is highly required to help parents keep their children safe in online. All major platforms such as YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon offer a Kids Mode. On the Chrome browser, Google allows users to set up parental controls.
