Instagram has announced the introduction of Teen Accounts, a new initiative designed to create a safer and more controlled environment for teenage users on the platform. Set to roll out globally starting September 17, 2024, this update aims to address parents' concerns while providing teens with age-appropriate experiences.
Key Features of Instagram Teen Accounts:
Automatic Enrollment: Teens will be automatically placed into Teen Accounts with built-in protections.
Parental Oversight: Teens under 16 need parental permission to change settings to be less restrictive.
Privacy Measures:
- Default private accounts
- Strict messaging restrictions
- Limited interactions with non-followers
Content Control:
- Stricter sensitive content filters
- New feature allowing teens to select topics of interest for recommendations
Time Management:
- 60-minute daily time limit reminders
- Sleep mode enabled between 10 PM and 7 AM
Implementation Timeline:
- Immediate: New teen sign-ups placed in Teen Accounts
- Next Week: Existing teen users notified and moved to Teen Accounts
- Within 60 Days: Full implementation in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia
- Late 2024: Roll-out in the European Union
- January 2025: Global availability and expansion to other Meta platforms
Enhanced Parental Controls:
- Insight into teens' messaging habits (last 7 days)
- Ability to set daily time limits
- Option to block Instagram usage during specific periods
- Visibility of teens' chosen content topics
Enforcement and Age Verification:
Instagram is developing technology to proactively identify teen accounts, even those with adult birthdays listed. Testing of this feature will begin in the US early next year.
This comprehensive update reflects Instagram's commitment to creating a safer social media environment for teenagers while addressing parental concerns about online safety and content appropriateness.