Wearables are on track to become the next big tech trend for kids, and this includes the best smartwatches. In its latest update, Google is preparing to add a new WearOS feature that will help parents manage their children's smartwatch usage during school hours.
Google's May 2024 system release notes share that the new 'School Time' feature is designed for use by parents and will allow them to impose access limitations on the apps their child uses. Parents will also have the option to silence their child's smartwatch, limiting distractions and allowing them to focus in the classroom.
Google hasn't announced how School Time will work yet, but we imagine users will be able to change their kids' School Time settings from their own Wear OS app. We also don't know yet if the feature will be available on all WearOS devices or if it will only be accessible on newer WearOS devices like the Google Pixel Watch 2.
While it's a new addition to the WearOS user interface, parental settings for wearable technology are far from new. Apple introduced a similar feature, also called 'School Time' with its watchOS 7 update in 2020. It allows parents to limit certain features on their child's Apple Watch, including setting up time blocks in certain apps and scheduling complications. the watch face, but still allows them to access features like Activity Rings, and the School Time feature on WearOS will likely work similarly.
Analysis: Are smartwatch manufacturers increasingly targeting children?
Although Google is lagging behind with its parental features for smartwatches, it's good to see the company keeping younger smartwatch users in mind: Features like School Time make it easier for high school-aged users to focus on things like study. However, Google's new update could also suggest that it is targeting its wearable devices at younger users.
It's understandable why high school-aged kids would want to wear a smartwatch, especially if they're already using Google Pixel phones and want to explore wearable devices that expand their features and services. But younger children are starting to become more and more interested in smart watches.
Some brands already make watches designed for younger children; We think the Fitbit Ace 3 is a solid entry-level option for a kids' smartwatch. So could Google launching its School Time feature be an indication that a new Google kids smartwatch is on the way?
