During this week Google's YouTube announced some changes to the allegedly child-friendly YouTube Kids mobile app, including information for parents on how the smartphone application works, and the protection it provides children. This action was in response to several complaints including ones from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and consumer watchdog organizations. After they originally complained about issues such as content including alcohol, drugs, and sex; the search feature, and ads, they have judged the new changes as "superficial."
YouTube Kids was launched in February. It has been downloaded over 8 million times since then, and can stream videos using platforms including Apple TV, Chromecast, and game consoles.
The organizations' main concern is that the advertising in the app is overdone or false. In addition, it also fails to meet the advertising rules for children's TV programs. One key issue is that mobile device tech is ahead of the laws, rules, and regulations related to them.
YouTube Kids offers "kid-friendly" videos. They are for youngsters from pre-school to elementary school, and are categorized in various topics including Shows, Learning, Explore and Music.
The mobile app lets children watch shows in the form of web series. They are from famous famous brands including Jim Henson TV, DreamWorks TV, National Geographic Kids, and Mother Goose Club.
YouTube Kids is becoming the next TV. However, various watchdog groups complain that it is not required to meet the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) regulations for programs on free television, cable, and satellite TV, according to Tech Crunch.
Google explained that YouTube Kids includes paid ads to keep the app free. It also added that some YouTube advertisements are not paid ads.
In addition, the search giant shared that it had consulted various family-oriented groups before releasing the app's updates. It also allows its users to red flag any videos that might be inappropriate for children, according to iSchoolGuide.
The trending issue of online content for kids is critical as children use smartphones and tablets more and watch TV sets less. A study this year showed that 36 percent of infants used mobile phones or tablet computers before they turned one year old. Over 70 percent of kids also played mobile games by 2 years old.