Messenger Kids is an instant messenger introduced by Meta Platforms in December 2017, aimed at providing a secure alternative for a younger audience compared to the standard Messenger platform. Initially launched exclusively for iPad tablets running the iOS operating system in the United States, subsequent updates extended support to iPhone and Android devices, reaching additional markets such as Canada, Peru, and Mexico.[1][2]
 Logo used since 2021 | |
| Developer(s) | Meta Platforms |
|---|---|
| Initial release | December 4, 2017 |
| Operating system | Android, iOS |
| Platform | Communication |
| Available in | English |
| Type | Instant messaging, VoIP |
| License | Freeware |
| Website | messengerkids |
Designed with a focus on child safety, the platform allows users to register using their first and last names rather than phone numbers. Parental oversight is a key feature, encompassing identity verification and the approval of contacts. The absence of in-app purchases and advertisements, coupled with a commitment to refraining from data collection for advertising purposes, distinguishes Messenger Kids. Importantly, children's accounts remain non-searchable on Facebook, and the platform does not automatically transition a child's account into a full-fledged Facebook account upon reaching the minimum registration age of 13. Noteworthy features of Messenger Kids include augmented reality filters and lenses, as well as the inclusion of games and educational content. [3][4]
Criticism
editDespite its certification under the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), the platform has faced criticism. Concerns have been raised regarding the collection of message and photo contents from minors, with particular scrutiny directed at the perceived effort to engage users in the Facebook experience from a very young age.[4][5][6] Public figures, including the United Kingdom's Secretary of Health Jeremy Hunt, publicly criticized the initiative, expressing reservations about Facebook's involvement with younger children. Criticism also emerged from child-development experts, including pediatricians, educators, and advocacy organizations, who argued that the app appeared to be creating a need rather than addressing an existing one. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) highlighted Meta's misrepresentation of parental control capabilities, noting instances where children were able to communicate with unapproved contacts in group chats and video calls, contravening the platform's stated principles.[7][8]
References
edit- ^ Cheng, Loren (December 4, 2017). "Introducing Messenger Kids, a New App For Families to Connect". Facebook. Facebook. Archived from the original on September 29, 2019. Retrieved September 18, 2018.
- ^ Perez, Sarah (July 19, 2018). "Messenger Kids launches in Mexico". Techcrunch. Archived from the original on March 5, 2021. Retrieved July 21, 2018.
- ^ Nieva, Richard (December 4, 2017). "Facebook wants your child on its new Messenger Kids app". CNET. CBS Interactive. Archived from the original on April 16, 2021. Retrieved December 10, 2017.
- ^ a b Constine, Josh (December 4, 2017). "Facebook 'Messenger Kids' lets under-13s chat with whom parents approve". TechCrunch. Oath Inc. Archived from the original on April 13, 2021. Retrieved December 10, 2017.
- ^ Tiku, Nitasha (December 5, 2017). "Facebook for 6-year-olds? Welcome to Messenger Kids". Wired. Condé Nast. Archived from the original on February 24, 2021. Retrieved December 14, 2017.
- ^ Naughton, John (December 10, 2017). "Data-hungry Facebook seeks younger recruits". The Guardian. Archived from the original on April 16, 2021. Retrieved December 14, 2017.
- ^ Mason, Rowena (December 5, 2017). "Jeremy Hunt attacks Facebook over app aimed at children". The Guardian. Archived from the original on February 23, 2021. Retrieved December 14, 2017.
- ^ "Child experts file FTC complaint against Facebook kids' app". AP NEWS. October 3, 2018. Archived from the original on May 30, 2023. Retrieved May 30, 2023.