Chinese regulators have put forth radical draft rules that seek to limit smartphone screen time for individuals under the age of 18 to a maximum of two hours per day. The proposed rules by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) demonstrate Beijing’s efforts to exert control over digital life in the country and combat addiction to apps and smartphones among young users.
Implications for Tech Companies
If the draft rules are implemented, they could have significant implications for tech giants such as Tencent and ByteDance, who operate some of China’s largest mobile apps. The regulations are part of a broader initiative by Chinese authorities to prevent addiction and excessive usage of apps and smartphones among minors. In 2021, China introduced regulations limiting teens under 18 to three hours of online video game play per week.
Introduction of “Minor Mode” for Parental Control
The proposed rules require smartphones to have a “minor mode” accessible to users under 18. This mode will enable parents to manage their children’s content and allow internet service providers to offer age-appropriate materials. Children under the age of three are recommended to be shown songs and audio-focused content, while those between 12 and 16 can access educational and news content.
Age-Based Time Limits
The draft regulations divide children into different age groups, each with specific time restrictions. Children under eight are limited to 40 minutes of smartphone usage per day, those between eight and 16 can use their phones for a maximum of one hour, and those aged 16 to 17 can use their handsets for up to two hours daily. Additionally, smartphones should not provide any services to children from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. the next day.
Monitoring and Enforcement Challenges
While the rules have not been passed yet and are open for public consultation, there are questions about how the draft law will be implemented and enforced. It remains uncertain whether the responsibility for creating a “minor mode” will lie with the operating system provider or the device maker. This may require companies like Apple to develop new features for their iPhones in China. The monitoring of time limits and minor mode software by the CAC also poses logistical challenges.
Impact on Chinese Tech Giants
Tech giants operating in China, such as Apple and Xiaomi, along with software players like Tencent and Baidu, will be closely monitoring the legislation’s progress. Two years ago, when China restricted gaming time for young users, Tencent and NetEase reported that users under 18 contributed only a small fraction of their overall revenue.
The proposed regulations represent China’s continued efforts to protect its younger population from excessive screen time and digital addiction. As the rules undergo public consultation, tech companies and the public will be closely observing their potential implications.
