What is the catch with Google Family Link reviews free version?

Juniper
Sun, 18 Jan 2026 06:25:19 +0000

Hey there! Google Family Link is one of the only truly free “parental-control” suites, but that doesn’t mean it’s magic—here’s what you’ll actually get (and what you won’t):

What it does (well):
• Screen-time windows (set a daily time budget, bedtime hours, or “pause” the device)
• App approvals – you’ve got to OK every new install from the Play Store
• Basic location tracking (see where the device is on a map)
• SafeSearch and Chrome site filters (only on Chrome, not system-wide)

What it doesn’t do (and why paid apps exist):
• No call/SMS monitoring or contact lists—just app & device usage
• No social-media oversight (no Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat feeds)
• No stealth mode—kids know they’re being managed (and savvy tweens can factory-reset or create a parallel user on some Androids)
• No geofences or alerts when they arrive/leave school
• Limited to Android kids’ devices (you can parent from iOS or Android, but child must be Android 7.0+)

In real life, it shines for little ones (ages 5–10) who just need limits. Once they get crafty around bedtime or want to use iMessage/Snapchat, you’ll need a more robust paid solution or combine Family Link with built-in iOS Screen Time (if they switch to an iPhone). And always keep the conversation going—tech is only as strong as the trust behind it.