Meta Announces New Instagram account for Teens

In order to enhance online safety, Meta has announced the launch of Instagram’s teen accounts, specifically designed for teenagers. 

These new Instagram accounts for teenagers will come equipped with robust safeguards to limit contact, filter content, and provide tailored features that cater to the interests of young users. 

The initiative is part of Meta’s ongoing commitment to creating a safer environment for teens on Instagram, addressing parental concerns about the potential risks associated with social media usage.

Enhanced Safety Features

The new teen accounts will automatically include several protective measures. For instance, users under 16 years old will need parental permission to modify any of the built-in protections within their accounts. 

This approach aims to foster a safer online experience while allowing parents to maintain oversight of their teens’ social media interactions. 

Meta plans to gradually roll out these accounts across the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia over the next 60 days. 

A global launch is set for January 2025, which will also see the expansion of similar features across other Meta platforms.

Meta’s spokesperson emphasized the company’s understanding of parental concerns regarding inappropriate content exposure. “We recognize parents are concerned that their teens might see mature or inappropriate content online, which is why we have stricter rules around the kinds of content teens see on our apps” they stated. 

The company has committed to removing content that violates its guidelines and minimizing recommendations for sensitive topics such as self-harm or sexually suggestive material.

Default Privacy Settings

To further enhance privacy, all teen accounts will be set to private by default. This setting applies to both new and existing users under 16 years old. 

New users under 18 must approve any follow requests, while non-followers will be restricted from viewing or interacting with their posts. 

This proactive measure aims to create a more controlled environment for teens on Instagram, ensuring they can engage with their peers without unwanted attention from strangers.

Additionally, messaging settings will be strictly enforced, allowing direct messages only from users whom teens already follow or are connected with. 

This feature is designed to minimize unsolicited communications and provide a more secure messaging experience.

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Content Exposure Limits

The new accounts will also include automatic limitations on exposure to sensitive content within the Explore and Reels sections of Instagram. 

Teens will receive reminders encouraging them to log off after 60 minutes of daily use, promoting healthier online habits. 

Furthermore, a sleep mode feature will activate from 10 PM to 7 AM, muting notifications and sending automated replies to direct messages during this time.

In an effort to combat age misrepresentation—a common issue on social media—Meta is implementing measures requiring teens to verify their age in multiple instances. 

The technology developed by Meta aims to identify teen accounts accurately, even if users attempt to list an adult birthday.

Support Resources

Starting in January 2024, Meta plans to take additional steps by hiding search results related to sensitive topics such as suicide, self-harm, and eating disorders. 

Instead of exposing users to potentially harmful content, the platform will redirect them to expert resources for support and guidance. 

This initiative reflects Meta’s commitment to prioritizing mental health and well-being among its younger audience.

As Instagram’s teen accounts prepare for their rollout, both parents and teens can look forward to a more secure and supportive environment on the platform. 

By implementing these changes, Meta aims not only to enhance user safety but also to foster positive interactions among young users navigating the complexities of social media in today’s digital landscape.

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