Google expands the "School Time" feature to phones and tablets
Initially, the "School Time" feature was introduced for Fitbit Ace LTE watches, and now Google plans to expand it to Android OS devices
Google has announced plans to extend its "School Time" feature to Android smartphones, tablets, and Samsung Galaxy Watches, allowing parents to restrict the functionality of their children's devices during school hours.
This step aims to help parents and students reduce distractions during classes and stay focused.
Using the "Family Link" app, parents can set a schedule for their child's school days and select which apps are available during that time, and "allow calls or texts from specific contacts". Parents can also quickly unlock their child's Android device during school hours if needed.
Users can also turn this feature on and off at any time, rather than according to a schedule. For example, if they need to focus on work or take their minds off the phone screen.
As Google notes, teenagers who are not supervised by their parents through the Family Link app can still use the "School time" mode on their devices to block notifications when they need to concentrate.
Google says this and other features will be introduced gradually over the next year, but the company has not yet specified which Android phones and tablets will support these options.
