http://mashable.com/2017/12/04/facebook-messenger-kids-app/#7kVO4V62zmqw
In December 2017, Facebook released a new app called "Messenger Kids" which is an extension of the Facebook Messenger platform. The goal of Messenger Kids is to allow children to connect with close friends and family through their tablet or smartphone. Kids can conduct group or 1:1 video calls while using interactive masks, reactions and sound effects. Facebook spent a great deal of time and research with kids and parents in developing the app and finding the right balance between connection and safety.
The launch of Messenger Kids begs the question of what responsibility social media companies have in preventing kids from growing up hooked to social media and promoting safe online environments. The functionality they've enabled seems to indicate that they are genuinely concerned about safety. For example, Messenger Kids accounts have to be associated with a parent's existing Facebook account and parents approve all friend requests. Still, it's clear that Facebook is trying to create their next generation of users and will benefit greatly from getting young users to interact early on.
Lastly, I'm curious about how/if Facebook will allow brands onto the platform similar to how brands can have bots on Facebook Messenger. If they decide to go this route, this could open up a whole new channel for brands to interact directly with a younger demographic and help to influence parent's purchasing decisions.
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