Microsoft Edge quickly skyrocketed to the second-most popular desktop browser after switching to Chromium, the same engine that powers Google Chrome. One of its standout features, Microsoft Edge Kids Mode, has contributed to its growing popularity by offering a safer and more tailored browsing experience for children.
Since its debut, Microsoft Edge has added many useful new features, including the launch of Kids Mode with parental controls.
Safe Internet Browsing for Children
Microsoft Edge users on Windows and Mac OS can now use “Child Mode”, which should allow parents to allow their children under 12 to access the Internet, but in a safe way, while also making the browser accessible to everyone is useful.
Age-Based Restrictions and Protection
This works by adding a profile for the kid with restrictions supported if they’re between 5 and eight or 8 and 12.
Both age ranges turn Edge’s settings to the very best level of tracking protection also as keeping Bing’s Safe Search at its highest filter for adult text, images, and videos.
Predefined Allow List and Customization Options
There is also an allow list that oldsters can add sites to, and Microsoft sets 70 popular sites for youngsters thereon allow list by default.
As the Verge points out, the youngsters Mode in Microsoft Edge also disables some common keyboard shortcuts that might enable kids to urge back to normal browsing, though that only works on Windows.
Both versions of the browser would require your system credentials to modify from Kids Mode back to normal browsing.
There also are some features beyond just blocking sites. Kids Mode has custom themes, including some created with characters from Disney and Pixar films like Finding Nemo as seen below.
Microsoft calls this feature a “game changer” for folks and it’s hard to afflict that conclusion.
Conclusion
Microsoft Edge’s Kids Mode offers a simple and effective way for parents to ensure their children have safe and controlled screen time. Additionally, features like custom themes and strong content filters enhance the browsing experience. By requiring system credentials to exit Kids Mode and offering a curated, age-appropriate experience, Edge sets a new standard for browser safety. Moreover, while Google Chrome does provide limited parental controls through Google accounts, it lacks the convenience, customization, and ease of use that Edge offers. Therefore, given its success, it’s a feature we hope Google will seriously consider adopting in Chrome to further improve online safety for children.
