Key Highlights
- WhatsApp is developing a “Primary Controls” system for parent-managed child accounts.
- Parents may link a child’s account using a QR code and secure it with a PIN.
- Secondary accounts could block Channels, Updates, and Chat Lock.
- Parents may see activity signals, not messages or calls.
WhatsApp is working on a new parental controls system that could let parents create limited “secondary accounts” for children. The feature aims to offer safer access for minors while keeping messages private. It matters because it could change how families introduce kids to messaging without exposing them to open platforms.
New details surfaced from WhatsApp’s Android beta builds. The feature, called Primary Controls, remains under development. It is not yet available to testers.
What Are WhatsApp’s “Primary Controls”?
Primary Controls will allow a parent to act as the main account holder. From this account, they can create and manage a child’s secondary WhatsApp profile.
Setup may work through a QR code. The parent scans it and links the child’s account. A six-digit PIN then protects the setup. Any sensitive change on the child’s account would require this PIN.
These secondary accounts are designed for safety. They reportedly limit communication to saved contacts only. This could prevent random messages from unknown users.
How Will WhatsApp Restrict Child Accounts?
The beta findings suggest tighter limits than earlier reports.
- The Updates tab may be blocked. That includes Channels and broadcast-style content.
- Chat Lock may not be available. This prevents hiding conversations on the device.
- Some visibility may exist for parents. They could see actions like adding a new contact.
However, privacy remains intact. Parents will not see message content or call details. End-to-end encryption stays unchanged.
This design keeps conversations private while offering guardrails around access and discovery.
When Does the Link End?
Secondary accounts will stay linked to a parent until one of two things happens:
- The parent removes the link.
- The child reaches the minimum age allowed under WhatsApp’s Terms of Service.
At that point, the account can convert into a regular WhatsApp profile. Full features become available after accepting updated terms.
Why This Matters for WhatsApp Users
WhatsApp already dominates family communication in many regions. A built-in child mode could reduce the need for third-party safety apps. It also reflects rising pressure on platforms to protect minors.
If launched widely, this could set a new standard for messaging apps.
In short, WhatsApp is preparing a system that lets kids use the app with boundaries, while parents stay informed without reading private chats.
