AT&T will be launching a new parental control app called Secure Family on the 26th of November. Secure Family will be replacing Smart Limits, also a parental control app which is currently available for download. These app is exclusive for AT&T subscribers only.

The new app will have new features such as location tracking, time limits and content filtering. Location tracking is more accurate in the new app and parents can now receive notifications about their child’s status. For instance, when the child leaves or arrives at school, parents will be notified immediately. Another feature by AT&T is that parents can filter content based on age-appropriate settings and prevent app purchases on Google Play and App Store. If kids have been spending too much time on their social media, parents have just the power to set time limits in the new app. Of course, all these is only possible if Secure Family is installed on their child’s phone. AT&T offers an upgrade package at USD7.99 a month to monitor up to 10 lines.

Besides AT&T, Verizon also offers a parental control app similar to what AT&T offers. Verizon has just upgraded their existing FamilyBase app to Verizon Smart Family. Partial features of the app is available for Verizon customers at USD4.99 and goes up to USD9.99 for the full list of features which includes location tracking and alerts.

Telco companies offering a parental control app is a good move. On the bright side, parents will feel safe to be kept posted on their child’s whereabouts and their online activities. With the use of smartphones among children as young as 5 years old, telco companies in Malaysia should also come up with such app for locals.