3.6 Family Services#

Google Family Link is an official Google app that allows a family manager to supervise up to five child accounts.

Although designed for parent-child use, it can be misused in adult-adult relationships.

Family Link operates across:

  • Android phones
  • Google apps on Apple devices
  • Google Chrome browser

The level of control depends on:

  • Account age
  • Device type (Android vs non-Google devices)

Controls on Android and Chromebooks#

On Android phones and Chromebooks, Family Link can:

  • Set screen time limits
  • Approve or block app downloads
  • Restrict websites in Chrome
  • Restrict specific apps
  • View all installed apps
  • View time spent on each app
  • Track real-time device location
  • Control sign-ins on new devices
  • Change account settings
  • Delete supervised accounts if under 13

For accounts above 13 or the age of consent, Family Link cannot:

  • Remotely view your screen
  • View browsing or search history
  • Reset your account password
  • Read emails or messages
  • Listen to calls
  • Change your lock screen password
  • Prevent you from stopping supervision

Signs Your Phone Is Being Supervised#

  1. Open Google Account settings
  2. Go to People & sharing
  3. Select View family group

If another account is listed as a supervisor, they may see or control actions depending on settings.

If you do not see family group or parental control options, you are likely not part of a Google Family.

Whether you can leave depends on your account age.

  • Under 13: You cannot leave the group yourself
  • Over 13 / age of consent: You can remove supervision without a Parent Access Code

⚠ Removing Family Link without a Parent Access Code will lock supervised Android devices for 24 hours.

Steps to Remove Supervision#

  1. Open Settings
  2. Open Parental Controls
  3. Tap three dots in the top-right corner
  4. Select Stop supervision
  5. Follow on-screen instructions

If Birthdate or Account Details Are Incorrect#

If your real age does not match the account age, or the steps above do not apply:

  • Contact Google Support
  • Be prepared to verify your identity
  • Ensure your environment is safe before proceeding
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