Child Lock 2.0: Internet access on children's phones to shut off after 10 PM; find out what 'Minor Mode' is.

Minor Mode: The Indian government is considering implementing 'Minor Mode' on smartphones. Learn about Child Lock 2.0, the proposal to cut off internet access on children's phones after 10 PM, and the associated rules.

Children holding phones and spending hours watching reels—this is a common sight in almost every household today. Governments worldwide are now preparing to curb this trend, doing so directly from within the phones themselves. According to sources, the Indian government is considering a system where a dedicated 'Minor Mode' could become mandatory for every smartphone sold in the country in the future. This implies that smartphone manufacturers would be responsible for ensuring child safety features. However, no draft rules or official notifications have been issued yet; the matter is currently under consideration.

What exactly is 'Minor Mode'?

Simply put, 'Minor Mode' creates a separate, secure environment within the phone. When the phone operates in this mode, the child can only view and do things appropriate for their age. Additionally, parents can decide which apps can be downloaded and which cannot. Limits on daily phone usage duration can also be pre-set. Features like phone access or social media usage can automatically shut down late at night, and harmful content is filtered out. However, essential services—such as educational apps and emergency calling—remain active so that the child is not left stranded in a critical situation.

Don't phones already have these settings?

These settings already exist on smartphones, which is the most interesting aspect of this story. Apple iPhones already feature tools like Screen Time, Family Sharing, child accounts, and Communication Safety. Apple has recently strengthened these features; now, as soon as a child's account is created, age-appropriate safety settings activate automatically, even if the parents haven't completed the full setup process. Age ratings like 13+, 16+, and 18+ are already available on app stores. On Android phones, Google's Family Link performs essentially the same functions; it allows parents to control their child's screen time, app downloads, and content access.

So, why does the government need a new rule?

The difference boils down to one word: choice versus compulsion. Currently, these features rely on parental discretion. Most people are unaware that such settings exist on their phones or simply do not want to go through the hassle of enabling them. These features are often tucked away in different locations depending on the manufacturer—Apple places them in one spot, while Samsung and Xiaomi place them elsewhere. Furthermore, on budget phones, these features are often inadequate or incomplete.

The government wants a "minor mode" that is easily accessible and prominently visible on every phone. Additionally, it wants mobile companies and app developers to integrate child safety features from the very beginning, rather than adding them as an afterthought.

What sparked the government's concern?

This concern did not arise overnight. In the Economic Survey presented to Parliament in January of this year, the government identified the rising digital addiction among children as a serious public health issue.

The survey clearly stated that unfiltered content affects children's behavior, attention spans, and future aspirations. It recommended mandatory age limits for social media platforms and suggested measures such as "digital diets" and the use of digital devices dedicated solely to education for children.

Several states are already taking steps in this direction. Karnataka has formed a committee to examine the feasibility of banning mobile phone usage for children under 16. The Andhra Pradesh Commission for Protection of Child Rights has recommended a ban on smartphone use for children under 13. Meanwhile, the Bihar government is formulating a policy on children's screen time based on a report by NIMHANS.

What has China done that is generating so much discussion?

China's internet regulator has proposed a rule making "minor mode" mandatory across all smartphones, apps, and app stores. This system sets screen time limits based on age. Children under the age of 8 are permitted to use phones for only 40 minutes a day; those aged 8 to 16 are allowed one hour, while teenagers aged 16 to 18 are restricted to a maximum of two hours.

Internet access is completely cut off between 10 PM and 6 AM. Apps shut down automatically once the allotted time expires, though parents can grant exceptions if they wish. These restrictions do not apply to apps used for education or emergencies.

It is not just China; the UK is also considering a "digital curfew" for teenagers. Since 2022, France has mandated that parental controls come pre-installed on all connected devices, with an option to activate them for free upon the phone's initial setup. Australia has already banned social media accounts for children under the age of 16.

What might happen next in India?

If this proposal moves forward, draft regulations will be released first, inviting feedback from the public and the industry. A decision will then be made regarding whether the responsibility for implementing the "minor mode" lies with phone manufacturers or with the companies that develop operating systems, such as Google and Apple.

Opposition from companies is also anticipated; last year, several firms—including Apple—objected to a directive requiring the pre-installation of the 'Sanchar Saathi' app on phones. Privacy is another major concern: how will age be verified, and who will safeguard the child's data? A debate on these issues is inevitable. For now, it is clear that the discussion surrounding children and smartphones has moved beyond the confines of the home and onto the government's agenda. A significant decision on this matter could be reached in the coming months.