China Proposes A Daily Two-Hour Phone Usage Cap For Minors
In a significant move to address internet addiction among minors, China is contemplating the implementation of a “Two-Hour Phone Usage” rule. The country’s leading internet regulator, the Cyberspace Administration of China, has proposed this regulation. It requires all mobile devices, apps, and app stores to incorporate a “minor mode” that restricts the screen time of minors to a maximum of two hours, with variations based on age groups.
China’s Initiative to Curb Internet Addiction Among Minors
If approved, the proposed regulations would bolster Beijing’s existing efforts. The aim is to limit screen time among children and protect them from “undesirable information.” These draft rules are currently open for public discussion until September 2. Under these rules, children and teenagers using devices in minor mode would experience a change. Once their respective time limits are reached, online applications would automatically close. Furthermore, they would be exposed to content that is appropriate for their age group.
Children under eight years old would be allowed a mere 40 minutes of phone usage per day. Those between eight and 16 years old would be permitted an hour of screen time. Teenagers aged 16 to 18 would be allowed a maximum of two hours. All age groups would receive a reminder to rest after using their device for more than 30 minutes.
Promoting Core Socialist Values Through Content
The draft rules have a clear mandate for mobile internet service providers. They must actively create content that disseminates core socialist values. Additionally, this content should help forge a sense of community among the Chinese nation. On the other hand, parents are given some control over these restrictions. They have the ability to override the time limits if necessary. However, it’s important to note that certain services are exempt from these restrictions. Specifically, educational and emergency services would not be subject to the time limits.
In a nutshell, as internet addiction emerges as a significant social concern, China’s proposed two-hour phone usage limit for minors represents a proactive approach to addressing the issue. The effectiveness of these new regulations will largely hinge on the cooperation of parents and tech companies. If these measures are implemented, they could significantly alter the digital landscape for minors in China, potentially setting a benchmark for other countries grappling with similar issues.
