In this file photo dated March 22, 2021, a teacher gives instructions as pupils operate computers after school at a primary school in Baoji, northwest China's Shaanxi province. (PHOTO / XINHUA)
China's top internet regulator on Wednesday proposed new rules to protect minors online, including requiring mobile devices, apps, and app stores to offer a "juvenile mode" with age-appropriate content and usage limits.
The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) said the draft guidance is designed to meet the "new needs of juvenile protection in cyberspace."
Under the proposed rules, the juvenile mode would be enabled by default on all mobile devices and apps. Parents would be able to set usage limits for their children, and the mode would automatically close once the limits are reached.
The CAC said the juvenile mode would also include features to help parents supervise their children's online activity, such as the ability to track their browsing history and block certain websites and apps.
The draft guidance also calls for network service providers to take measures to limit the amount of money minors can spend on online products and services.
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The CAC said it is seeking public feedback on the draft guidance before it is finalized.