Recent reports suggest that Google is working on new versions of its popular online services YouTube and Gmail for kids below 13 years of age.
According to a report from the technology website the Information, Google is “working to overhaul its web services so it can legally allow children to use them.”
As per the company’s terms of service, only those of the age of 13 or older are eligible to sign up for Google services. The company claims the age barrier is necessary to comply with the US’s Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act, or COPPA, which imposes strict controls on the collection and use of information about children under 13.
Users while signing up for Google’s online services like Gmail are required to provide details about their age. Children below 13 trying to sign up are redirected to a Google Page stating their account cannot be created as they do not meet the age criteria.
The report states that Google is currently overhauling its Web services to allow children to safely use a range of facilities. The new system will let parents set up accounts for their kids, control how they use Google services and what information is collected about their wards.
As per the report, Google has already started developing a kid-friendly version of YouTube. The California based company is also looking out to introduce a dashboard where parents will be able to oversee their kids’ activities.
Google spokesman Peter Barron refused to comment on the alleged report.
