By Juliet Umeh

Meta has launched Instagram Teen Accounts, a new feature designed to enhance safety for teenagers under 16 on the platform.

The feature, rolled out on Tuesday, includes built-in protections to: Restrict inappropriate content, Limit unwanted interactions and Give parents more control over their child’s social media experience

Key Safety Features: Private Accounts: Teens must approve new followers, and content is hidden from non-followers. Messaging Restrictions: Teens can only receive messages from people they follow. Sensitive Content Limits: Teens are placed in the most restrictive settings. Time Limits & Sleep Mode: Teens are reminded to take breaks after 60 minutes, and notifications are muted between 10 PM and 7 AM.

Parental Supervision Features: Set daily time limits, Block usage at certain times, Monitor who teens are messaging

Teens under 16 require parental permission to adjust protective settings.

Yvonne Johnson, National PTA President, praised Meta’s prioritization of young people’s safety, while Lucy Thomas OAM, CEO & Co-Founder of Project Rockit, commended the balanced approach, empowering parents while respecting teens’ rights.

These updates aim to provide parents with peace of mind, knowing their teens are safer online.”