TikTok is expanding its Family Pairing features with new tools aimed at helping parents monitor and manage their ****agers’ activity on the app. The latest updates, announced Tuesday, include the ability to block access during specific hours, view a ****’s followers and following lists, and encourage healthier screen habits at night.
One of the key additions is “Time Away,” which allows parents to restrict TikTok usage at designated times, such as during school, family events, or late at night. While ****s can request additional time, parents retain control over whether to grant access.
Another major change gives parents visibility into who their **** follows, who follows them, and even who they have blocked. TikTok says this feature is designed to support conversations around digital safety and literacy, helping young users navigate their online interactions responsibly.
Beyond parental controls, TikTok is also rolling out measures to encourage ****s to develop better screen-time habits. The app’s new “wind-down” feature will prompt users under 16 to log off after 10 p.m. with a full-screen reminder and calming music. If dismissed, the app will send a second notification. In the coming weeks, TikTok plans to test adding meditation exercises to this feature.
These updates come as TikTok faces ongoing scrutiny from lawmakers over its impact on young users. The platform, alongside other social media companies, has been questioned in congressional hearings about online safety for younger users. The latest changes signal TikTok’s continued efforts to address concerns and demonstrate its commitment to user well-being – particularly as its future in the U.S. remains uncertain, where even the smallest changes could dramatically impact whether or not the platform is eventually banned.
