It can be difficult to keep track of every streaming service out there and whether its content is appropriate for children or whether it needs to be filtered by parental control software. If you’re wondering what Quibi is, and whether it’s appropriate for children, here’s what you need to know.
What Is Quibi?
Quibi is a streaming app designed for smartphones that can be watched either in “portrait” or “landscape,” with each series divided into brief “episodes” of ten minutes or less. The idea is that you can consume content in “quick bites” (hence the name “Quibi”) on the go. The service is aimed at teenagers, in particular, with the belief that teenagers are more likely to consume television on their phones.
What Content Is on Quibi?
Currently, the app’s lineup leans fairly heavily on reality shows, docu-series, and other relatively low budget content, with a handful of original drama series with more coming over time.
Similar to other streaming series, not all content is appropriate for all ages. Notably an adaptation of the violent comic book “Tomie” and the adult-focused comedy series “Reno 911!” are early series that will be on the platform.
Does Quibi Offer Parental Controls?
As of this writing, parental controls are not available on the app itself. Operating-system-level controls may apply to Quibi, and the app does offer content ratings to help inform parents about what’s available on the platform and what’s being watched.
What Approach Should I Take With Quibi?
How you view the app, and whether you allow it, will be up to your family rules and your approach to streaming content. You can certainly just block the app with parental control apps or by configuring the phone to prevent download or video streaming. But it will probably make more sense to do more than just block.
For any streaming service, take the following steps:
- Limit overall TV watching as part of overall screen time. Everyone in the family needs to learn how to balance their personal leisure against their chores and other needs. So set limits on what TV can be watched, whether it’s on a phone or tablet or elsewhere.
- Discuss what you think kids should view and why. Be honest and detailed about your reasons for what you’d prefer they watch.
- Make it clear kids can discuss things that worry or disturb them that they see without judgment. Even family-appropriate shows will touch on topics kids will need to talk about, such as the passing of loved ones.
- Be ready to discuss news and current events content in particular. We live in a world where it’s never been easier to be informed, whether through Quibi’s news channels, social media, or the content streams of various apps. Younger kids, in particular, will perhaps only have a limited understanding of what they see in the news and will need careful, neutral guidance to understand the issues.
Families can’t control everything about the world around them, but they can control how they react to it and how the world comes to them. To learn how third-party parental control apps can help, try it for free!
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