Although you can use SafetyMode by itself on an Other phone. It also works with Family Link by Google. Here's everything you need to know about using them together effectively.
Why Use Both?
While SafetyMode is powerful on its own, Google Family Link automatically enables Google SafeSearch and applies safety settings across Google apps like Chrome, Search, and YouTube. This is something SafetyMode cannot do independently, although we block bad websites and many wifi’s have SafeSearch enabled. However, this is why we have built SafetyMode to work together with Family Link - especially if your child uses Google Chrome.
What SafetyMode Adds to the Mix
Beyond what Family Link provides, SafetyMode brings several critical protections:
In-app Content Detection: SafetyMode detects harmful text and image content within any app on your child's phone, whether it's WhatsApp, Chrome, email, or anything else. This goes beyond browsing and protects them across all their digital interactions.
Network-Level Protection: Built-in DNS and VPN technology prevents access to harmful websites from any browser - not just Chrome. This means your child can't bypass protections by switching browsers, or using in-app browsers.
Reduced Distractions: The app hides unwanted apps from the home screen and blocks notifications from distracting apps. Fewer temptations mean fewer reasons to constantly check their phone, which supports healthy digital habits.
Minimalist Design: SafetyMode's streamlined user interface is deliberately designed to reduce addiction and combat the urge for constant phone checking.
Setting Up Google Family Link
Getting Family Link set up properly is straightforward. Here are our key recommendations:
Allow SafetyMode: The most important step—make sure SafetyMode is whitelisted and allowed on the device. Without this, it won't function.
Enable Unknown Sources: To keep SafetyMode updated, you'll need to allow app installations from unknown sources in your device settings. This only needs to be done during setup.
Add Your Child's Account: To enroll the device in Family Link, add your child's Google account to the phone. The easiest way is to sign into a Google app like Play Store or Chrome when you first set up the device—you'll get the option to set up the google account for your child right there. Alternatively, you can go to Settings > Digital Wellbeing and Parental Controls > Restricted Android Settings and follow the instructions.
Understanding Potential Conflicts
SafetyMode and Family Link do overlap in some areas, which is important to understand:
App Limits and Screen Time: Both tools can restrict how much time your child spends on certain apps. However, if you set a screen time limit on an app in Family Link, SafetyMode won't show this limit in its interface. This means an app might appear to have full access in SafetyMode while actually having time restrictions applied through Family Link. The good news: Family Link's rules always work simultaneously—the restrictions are in place even if SafetyMode doesn't display them.
Avoiding a Setup Mistake: Don't install the Family Link app on your own phone if you're using it to manage your child's device. Google may interpret your phone as a parent device, which can cause confusion in the system.
Final Thoughts
SafetyMode and Google Family Link create a powerful partnership that addresses different aspects of digital safety. By using them together, you get comprehensive protection across browsers, apps, and networks, combined with Google's ecosystem-wide safety features. The result is peace of mind and a healthier digital environment for your child.
