WhatsApp is introducing optional parental controls for teenagers, aiming to provide more age-appropriate experiences on the social messaging app. Parents can now be notified when their child joins or leaves a group and can adjust privacy settings. However, parents won't be able to view their child's messages or calls, which will remain private and protected by end-to-end encryption.

The new tools include options for selecting who can see a child's profile photo and who can add them to groups, as well as choices for using Meta AI, the app's built-in AI assistant. Parents can set up these controls using a PIN, which teens will need to switch off if they wish.

While the move is seen as a response to increased pressure from regulators, some analysts believe it may not be enough. Matt Navarra, a social media analyst, called it an 'obvious weakness,' noting that it shifts some responsibility to parents and teenagers.

The changes come as governments and regulators push tech companies to better protect children using their platforms. In June, the UK government announced plans to ban under-16s from social media, with the restrictions set to take effect in March 2027.

WhatsApp remains excluded from the ban, as the government considers it a messaging service rather than a social media platform. Regardless, the introduction of parental controls could signal a shift towards more responsible tech practices.