For some time now, big tech companies have been working on features and functionality to help us be more aware of how we use our mobile. In the case of Android, for several versions we can use the Digital Wellbeing functions, the objective of which is to help us manage our use of the mobile phone. Additionally, we also have parental controls.
Today we’re telling you about something new Port OS which will allow parents to limit the use that the little ones in the house make of their smart watch. It’s the new way School timea feature that comes with Wear OS with Google’s most recent operating system update for smart watches.
The aim of the new mode is to avoid distractions in class
As indicated by Google, thanks to the new update it will be possible establish a school schedule to limit the apps your son or daughter can use on their smartwatch while studying. In addition, this mode will also allow us to silence the device to avoid distractions in class every time a notification arrives.
Although Google has not detailed how this mode works, seems similar to the Class mode available on the Apple Watch. In the case of the Apple smart watch, this mode allows you to block the use of certain apps and activate the mode Do not disturb to avoid distractions and establish breaks.
The feature we are talking about is available in the most recent version of Google Play Services (specifically, in version v24.18)although at the moment we do not know if it will be compatible with all watches with Wear OS or only with some of the most recent models.
Without a doubt, the function we are talking about can be very useful for parents who are looking for ways to limit the use that their children make of their cell phone, tablets and smart watches, especially when they shouldn’t be using their devices, such as during school hours.
At this point it is interesting to remember that the use of cell phones in educational centers is increasingly close to being banned in Europe. In fact, just a few days ago the Valencian Community surprised us by announcing a ban on the use of cell phones in schools and institutes.
Cover image | Ivan Linares (Xataka)
Via | Android Authority
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