Google launched its YouTube Kids application back in February this year for Android and iOS users but restricted it to the US only. The search giant on Tuesday announced the app's expansion to UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
The YouTube blog post also states that since its launch, YouTube Kids app has been downloaded over 10 million times in the US. Also mentioned was that videos Wheels on the Bus had now been viewed more than Psy's Gangnam Style. It is worth noting that Wheels on the Bus is an hour-long video. The app is available to download from Google Play and App Store. The YouTube Kids app provides age-appropriate videos, channels, and playlists for the young ones.
The YouTube Kids app also includes few controls for parents, like a timer that lets them limit their kids' screen time and the app alerts to the child when the session is over. Other parental controls in the YouTube Kids app are the ability to turn off search to limit videos to just those on the home screen, sound settings to turn off background music and sound effects, and a dedicated product feedback section for parents to improve upon the app and content.
In April this year, the service came in the news for its advertisements. It was said to blend video programming and ads in ways that deceive children and parents. A coalition of consumer and children advocacy groups sent a letter to the US Federal Trade Commission asking it to examine whether the app violates rules prohibiting unfair and deceptive marketing practices.
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