Google has announced its decision to phase out the YouTube Kids app from smart TVs, starting July 2024. This strategic pivot redefines how children access content tailored specifically for them on the YouTube platform, underscoring Google’s dedication to fostering a safe and appropriate online environment for young viewers.
Google Announces Removal of YouTube Kids from Smart TVs: What Parents Need to Know for July 2024
Previously operating alongside the main YouTube app on smart TVs, YouTube Kids will now be integrated within the YouTube main app. This change, initiated in mid-last year, aims to provide a more seamless and integrated way for children to explore suitable content.
Google plans to discontinue the standalone YouTube Kids TV app in July 2024, integrating it into the main YouTube app. This will increase its availability on various platforms but will remove the distinct app icon from TV homescreens https://t.co/HXZdIzfage pic.twitter.com/z9BphzDp0F
— AlternativeTo (@AlternativeTo) February 27, 2024
Parents seeking to access the YouTube Kids platform through the original YouTube app must first set up a child-specific account within the app’s settings. Upon re-launching the app, a screen will prompt users to select who is watching—allowing a switch to the YouTube Kids interface designed specifically for children.
YouTube Kids, derived from the main YouTube platform, is engineered to create a safe space for children to browse videos online. The platform meticulously filters content through automated technologies and human reviews to ensure suitability for young audiences. Furthermore, it grants parents extensive control over the type of content accessible to their children.
In addition to the YouTube Kids adjustments, Google has also announced the removal of its personal assistant, Google Assistant, and the Google Meet app for online calls and meetings from smart TVs. This reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to reevaluate and enhance its services to better meet user needs.
This transition emphasizes Google’s commitment to providing a safe and appropriate viewing experience for children, with a focus on ease of use and integration for families. Although this shift may require users to make some adjustments, it reinforces the concept of a safer digital environment for the next generation.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Integration of YouTube Kids | YouTube Kids will be integrated within the main YouTube app on smart TVs starting July 2024. |
| Access Method | Parents must create a child-specific account within the YouTube app to access YouTube Kids content. |
| User Interface | A “Who is watching?” prompt facilitates switching between parent and child accounts, leading to the YouTube Kids interface. |
| Content Filtering | Content is carefully filtered using automated technologies and human reviews to ensure suitability for children. |
| Parental Controls | Offers parents extensive options to control the type of content their children can access. |
| Additional Removals | Google Assistant and Google Meet apps will be removed from smart TVs as part of Google’s service optimization efforts. |
This move by Google marks a significant step towards integrating child-friendly content within the main YouTube platform, ensuring a safer and more streamlined digital environment for young users and their families.
