Malcolm Owen
The rumored "Kids Mode" coming to watchOS 7 may include a modified version of Apple's Activity Rings tailor-made for younger users' activities.
The current speculation for "watchOS 7," the next milestone release of the Apple Watch operating system, is that it will include a kids mode alongside a number of other features. Within the child-friendly features will be an updated Activity Ring system, according to a report, which will encourage children to keep fit while using the wearable device.
According to another iOS 14 code leak reported by 9to5Mac, an Apple Watch configured to run in the kids mode will still offer the Activity Rings as a form of measuring a variety of metrics. Due to the use of the device by children, the rings may change what is being monitored in order to simplify the concept, and to prevent encouraging kids into incorrect movements.
For an example, the Move ring's current calorie-based activity system may not be appropriate for children. Instead, it could feasibly be removed in favor of a greater focus on the time spent in activities per day, though it could just as easily be replaced by a distance requirement for walking, or to measure minutes of high-impact activities.
In early March, it was reported in other iOS 14 code leaks that watchOS could allow multiple Apple Watches to be connected to one iPhone, with a parent able to designate an Apple Watch as a child's own with limited features. It was also suggested a parent would be able to designate trusted contacts for a child, music that could be listened to, and other controls to restrict usage.
A "Schooltime" feature is also thought to be on the way, which would limit apps and features at specific times of day, such as when a child is supposed to be in class.
It is thought the Kids Mode, along with other watchOS 7 features, will be made available in a software update shipping later in 2020.
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
AppleInsider Staff
Chip Loder
4 Comments
I think a Kids Mode is a good idea and I read on another site of someone who was proposing a “Sick Mode.” While I think it could use a better name, I find it frustrating when I’m not feeling well to have the watch constantly reminding me to check my rings. Strenuous activity is the last thing you want when under the weather. A sick mode that reminds you to take your temperature, take your medicine and hydrate, would be a welcome addition. Anyone for a better name than Sick Mode?
I’ll be buying myself a new AppleWatch the day they are announced if this kid’s mode is true. In today’s goofy world I want my son to have some way of contacting us or 911 if something were to happen but I don’t want him carrying around a phone just yet, My son will be getting my well seasoned Gen 3.
I I just want the ability to have the lock button back...