Child Proofing Your Android Device - Series 1

Series 1: Restricted Profiles

Tablet OS: Android version 4.3 and higher

Area: App Accessibility and In-App Purchases

In Android 4.3 and higher, it is possible to setup multiple user profiles with one user profile set into a Restricted Profile mode. 

This mode means, that only certain applications which are allowed by the main device owner are available to the user of the restricted profile. This is very useful for parents sharing the same tablet or mobile device with their children. 

Aside from creating a dedicated environment for the child to 'freely use' the device, the restricted profile removes the annoyance of predefined passwords on restricted apps that further prompts the curiosity of the child as to what the restricted app is for. 

Step 1: The device owner should go to Settings> User.

Step 2: Click add User Profile. Select Restricted Profile.

Step 3: Android will show a list of currently installed apps, the device owner will select the apps that the restricted user are allowed to use by sliding the switch from Off to On. By default all apps are set to Off.

Step 4: After selecting the allowable apps, touching the back button returns to the User Profile setting page. Android will indicate and prompt the device owner to setup the restricted profile. This will log-off the current user, and the device will go to the lock screen showing the device owner and the newly created user profile.

Step 5: Login to the restricted profile and make the necessary customizations like wallpapers, app shortcuts, and so on. This part is making sure the user of the restricted profile has a proper homescreen to log into.

Step 6: Going into the app drawer will show and should show only the apps allowed to the restricted user.

Step 7: When new apps or games are installed by the device owner, it can be added again by going to the restricted profile and adding the newly installed apps from the list.

Tips:

1. The device owner will be prompted to add a login password if it is not currently enabled.
2. You can tap on the avatar of the user to add his/her photo, adding more personalization.