Tech

Facebook launches a messaging app for kids

Key Points
  • Messenger Kids links to a parent's Facebook account and grants parental approval for chat and video call contacts.
  • The new app features a narrower, kid-friendly library of GIFs and facial filters.
  • Facebook says Messenger Kids is ad-free and won't use your child's information for ads.
Facebook announces new Messenger app for kids
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Facebook announces new Messenger app for kids

Facebook is launching a kids messaging app that gives parents control over who can chat with their children.

Messenger Kids links to a parent's Facebook account and grants parental approval for chat and video call contacts, the company announced Monday.

Kids open the app to a pre-approved list of friends and relatives and can launch one-on-one or group chats.

"Whether it's using video chat to talk to grandparents, staying in touch with cousins who live far away, or sending mom a decorated photo while she's working late to say hi, Messenger Kids opens up a new world of online communication to families," the company said in a statement.

The app features a narrower, kid-friendly library of GIFs and facial filters. It's available for the iPad, iPod touch and iPhone. Parents oversee their child's contact list through the Facebook app.

Facebook said Messenger Kids is ad-free and won't use your child's information for ads.