Due to increased concerns generated from Youtube showing questionable content to children, they’ve decided to build a separate website only for kids. The new app is scheduled to launch this week according to their help forum.
Several years ago this issue began when parents noticed recommended videos showing up in the queue with sexually explicit / disturbing videos of Elsa and Spiderman. Because of the public attention Youtube ramped up their parental controls for its Youtube Kids app which allowed guardians to determine the videos their kids to watch on the Youtube app.
The new app will have several different options for various age ranges. A preschool setting will show videos that promote creativity, learning & exploration. Settings for kids aged 5 to 7 also allow for cartoons, crafts, and musical content. Lastly, a setting for ages 8 to 12 will allow family oriented vlogs, gaming content and science videos.
This likely comes as a result of an FTC settlement that could make Youtube redirect users under the age of 13 to a separate website that doesn’t collect personal data.
However, with automation pulling most of the weight on this new app it’s unlikely Youtube will be able to catch all of the offending content.