Apple has announced the launch of the “Apple Watch For Your Kids” feature availability in India, designed to extend the Apple Watch’s features and safety functions to children and family members who do not own an iPhone.
Apple Watch for Your Kids
This feature allows parents to set up a cellular plan for their child’s Apple Watch, enabling kids to make calls and send texts while parents can track their location.
The watch is set up through a parent’s iPhone, allowing kids to make calls, send messages, set Activity goals, and use custom Memoji, with parents controlling contacts for safety. It supports up to 14 hours of daily use, with battery life varying based on usage and settings.
Key Features
- Cellular Plan: Each Apple Watch for Kids will have its own phone number through a separate cellular plan. Kids can use their Apple ID to manage schedules, view family events on Calendar, and use Reminders.
- Music and Siri: Kids can listen to Apple Music via Bluetooth headphones and speakers and use Siri for questions and translations.
- Navigation: Maps assist with safe navigation to family members’ homes or parks.
- Location Tracking: The Find People app allows guardians to track and receive location updates, either one-time or on a schedule.
- Activity Tracking: The Activity rings are tailored for kids, focusing on Move minutes instead of kilojoules. Outdoor workouts like Walking, Running, and Cycling are optimized for children, with coaching notifications adapted for younger users.
- Emergency SOS: Kids can use the side button to access emergency services. Guardians receive notifications if listed as an emergency contact. The Medical ID feature shows critical health information.
- App Store Access: Kids can download apps directly from the App Store. Parents can control app downloads through Content Restrictions and Ask to Buy.
- Schooltime Mode: This mode helps kids stay focused by limiting app access and enabling Do Not Disturb. Parents can schedule this mode via iPhone or activate it from the watch. Screen Time’s Downtime feature is also supported.
The company noted that not all features are available when the watch is set up through Apple Watch for Kids.
Availability
The Apple Watch for Kids is available in India for cellular models of Apple Watch Series 4 or later and Apple Watch SE with watchOS 7 or later, compatible with iPhone 6s or later running iOS 14 or later. A wireless service plan, currently available through Jio, is required for cellular service.