Can I block an android phone from downloading apps?

[cindie810]

Can I block my daughter android phone from the internet totally so she can not download any messaging apps and just use the normal messaging.  She keeps downloading kick, etc...

[demmo86rt]

Smartphones require a data plan and, therefore, I don't believe can be totally blocked from the internet.  You can, however, look into a parental control app that would allow you to monitor which apps are installed and/or control which apps are allowed on the device.  I don't have any specific suggestions, but I'm sure if you google it you can find some that would work for what you are trying to accomplish.

[MiiHere · Accepted solution]

On your daughters phone do this:

1. Open "Play Store"

2. Click the top left hand corner (3 stacked vertical lines)

3. Click Settings

4. Select "parental controls"

5. Select "low maturity"

6. Enter a pin only you can use

If she is purchasing apps then you can select below parental controls "require authentication for purchases"

I don't know what the app kick is, or what all you're trying to prevent, but that's a start.

[Snn5]

KiK is a medium maturity rating.  Try this link for descriptions of maturity levels and what they cover.  A lot that a kid can download and get in trouble with is rated Low Maturity.

Restrict app downloads - Google Play Help

[Snn5]

Prevent accidental or unwanted purchases - Google Play Help

This shows how to enable a password for purchases, but won't do anything for free apps.

[Abdullah_Bennett]

u can get a basic phone instead of a smartphone for your daughter. that will solve alot of issues, kids don't need smartphones anyways, they should be paying attention in school not playing angry birds

[Snn5]

There are many reasons a parent might want their child to have a smartphone.  That's at the parents' discretion though.  Perhaps the child needs the schedule app, or needs to be able to face time or video chat with a parent, or a parent needs more options for tracking a child for the child's safety.  Many reasons.

[MiiHere]

I live out of state and have a niece and 3 nephews. It's nice to be able to skype and stay in touch without first having to get in touch with my sister.