Sony has launched a new mobile application designed to give parents more control over their children’s PlayStation gaming habits. The app, integrated into the main PlayStation App, allows parents to manage various aspects of their child’s console usage directly from their smartphones. This tool works with both the PlayStation 4 (PS4) and PlayStation 5 (PS5), offering a centralized way to monitor and set boundaries for young gamers.
Key Takeaways
- Parents can now set daily or weekly playtime limits for their children.
- The app allows for management of spending on the PlayStation Store, preventing unexpected purchases.
- Content can be restricted based on age ratings for games, Blu-rays, and DVDs.
- Communication features, like messaging with other players, can be monitored and limited.
- The controls are part of the free PlayStation App, available on both Android and iOS devices.
Sony’s new feature set is a direct response to the growing need for easier family management in the digital gaming world. Many parents in India and across the globe worry about the amount of time their children spend playing video games and the type of content they are exposed to. This application aims to provide peace of mind by putting essential controls in the hands of the guardians.
The setup requires a parent to create a PlayStation Network account and designate themselves as the “Family Manager.” They can then add their children’s accounts to the “Family.” Once linked, the parent can access the parental controls through the PlayStation App on their phone.
One of the main features is Play Time Management. Parents can schedule specific gaming hours for each day of the week. For instance, they can allow one hour of gaming on weekdays and three hours on weekends. The console will automatically log the child out when the time is up. The app also sends a notification to the parent’s phone, who can then choose to extend the session if they wish.
Another important control is the spending limit. Parents can set a monthly budget for the PlayStation Store. This prevents children from making unauthorized purchases of games, add-ons, or in-game currency. The system declines any transaction that exceeds the pre-approved budget.
The app also provides robust content filtering. Parents can block access to games, videos, and online content that is not appropriate for their child’s age. This uses the established age rating systems to help parents make informed decisions. Furthermore, the tool lets parents decide if their child can communicate with other players through voice chat and messages, helping to create a safer online environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is the official name of the PlayStation parental control app?
A. The parental control features are integrated directly into the main PlayStation App. You manage them through the “Family Management” settings within the app.
Q. Is the PlayStation parental control app free to use?
A. Yes, the app and all its parental control features are completely free. You only need a PlayStation Network account.
Q. What can I control with the app?
A. You can control your child’s playtime, set monthly spending limits, restrict access to age-inappropriate content, and manage online communication features.
Q. Does the app work with both PS4 and PS5?
A. Yes, the parental controls work seamlessly across both the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles.
Q. How do I set up the parental controls?
A. You need to create a “Family” on the PlayStation Network with you as the “Family Manager” and your child as a “Child Member.” You can then manage all settings from the PlayStation App on your phone or through the PlayStation website.
