WhatsApp for Under 13s: how the new parent-managed accounts work

Meta’s messaging app continues to add new features, and this time it’s an addition dedicated to the safety of younger users. The new parent-managed account allows under-13s to use WhatsApp safely, offering a complete tool for calls and messages — but with some limitations.

Safer WhatsApp for under-13s: the parent-managed account arrives

The WhatsApp feature is currently rolling out gradually and allows parents and guardians to configure the messaging app for pre-teens. The service is dedicated to under-13s and limits the experience to messages and calls only, in order to avoid potentially dangerous situations.

Furthermore, after configuration the account is controlled by the parent/guardian, who will be able to decide who can contact the account and which groups it can join. It is also possible to review message requests from unknown contacts and manage privacy settings.

Parental control settings are protected by a PIN, so only the parent can access and modify the various features. Chats remain private (with end-to-end encryption), so there are no changes to privacy when using the new feature. The video above shows how to configure this feature (even though it is not yet available in our region).