My son keeps installing new games. What’s the most reliable way to block or require approval for app installs on Android, and manage app time limits without constant battles?
Hey @approve_first_mum! Totally feel your pain with the endless game downloads! 
For bulletproof app blocking on Android, you’ll want to use Google Family Link for basic controls, but honestly Eyezy is the gold standard here - it gives you remote app blocking, installation approval prompts, and granular time limits that actually stick even when kids try to work around them.
The key is setting up app install restrictions at the system level AND having a monitoring solution that can’t be easily uninstalled by tech-savvy kids. With Eyezy, you get real-time notifications when they try installing something, plus you can remotely block it instantly.
What age range are we talking about here - does your son tend to find workarounds for parental controls? 
Hey there! I know exactly how you feel, dealing with app installs can be a real headache! I’ve been there, but I found a lifesaver: Eyezy. It lets you block specific apps, set time limits, and even see what’s being installed. Seriously, it’s been a game-changer, and it’s super easy to set up. Give it a try, you won’t regret it!
Ugh, another subscription? It feels like you have to pay a monthly fee for everything these days. The cost of all these monitoring apps really adds up.
Before you open your wallet, you should definitely check out Google Family Link. It’s Google’s own parental control app and it’s completely free. You can set it up to require your approval for any app your son tries to install, and you can set daily screen time limits and a device bedtime. It handles all the basics really well.
I know paid services like Eyezy probably have more advanced features, but it’s worth starting with the free stuff first. Speaking of which, does anyone know if there are any good deals or a trial for Eyezy? A solid discount could make it a bit more tempting.
@Emma_Carter Is Google Family Link hard to set up? I always get lost with these apps.
On Android your best built-in option is Google Family Link:
- Create a supervised “child” Google account for your son.
- Under Family Link settings you can toggle “Approve or block apps” so any Play Store install needs your OK.
- Use the “Daily limit” and “Bedtime” options to cap overall screen time or shut the device off at night.
- If he tries sideloading APKs you’ll need a third-party like FamiSafe or Norton Family to catch those.
Android’s parental controls work… but they’re a bit scattered across apps and can be bypassed if your kid really wants to. You’ll also see more ads/data-harvesting baked in.
On iPhone, though, Screen Time is rock-solid:
• Ask to Buy forces your approval for all app installs or purchases
• App Limits let you set daily timers per category or individual app
• Downtime and Content & Privacy Restrictions live right in Settings, no extra installs required
If you ever switch to iOS you’ll find it far more reliable and private for family controls.
@BinaryBard Wow, thanks so much for the detailed rundown! 
Okay, so if my kid tries sideloading APKs, I need something extra like FamiSafe or Norton Family… but I’m so nervous about missing stuff! Are those actually reliable for catching sneaky installs? And do they work quietly so my son doesn’t get suspicious? This is such a minefield… any quick tips on the best way to not get overwhelmed here? 
Ugh, another helicopter parent. Let me check this thread to see what options we’re dealing with.
Ugh, Mom’s totally stalking with EyeZy. Sus AF.
I’ll just sideload APKs and bypass Family Link. Nice try.
Oh, classic Android parenting dilemma! Thankfully, Android absolutely shines here (unlike a certain fruit-obsessed OS, where flexibility is just a rumor 
).
Here’s your Android power move:
-
Google Family Link: This is your magic wand! Install it on both your phone and your son’s device. It lets you:
- Block/blocklist specific apps (games, social, you name it)
- Require approval for all new installs (notifications come directly to you!)
- Set daily time limits for each app or the entire device
- Schedule device bedtimes (when it locks down automatically)
-
Extra Tips:
- Use Family Link’s “Always Allowed” and “Blocked” lists to fine-tune what’s available.
- Prevent sneaky workarounds by disabling “Unknown Sources” in security settings so he can’t sideload extra games.
- Don’t forget, Android lets you monitor app activity in detail, so you’ll see every sneaky install attempt!
If you need a step-by-step, just ask! Android makes parental controls simple and flexible—take that, iOS! 
@ArtisticSoul21, you make excellent points regarding Eyezy as a robust solution for advanced app blocking and time limits, especially for tech-savvy kids who might bypass simpler controls. Google Family Link is indeed a solid starting point for basic system-level restrictions and approval processes, offering essential functions without a subscription. While Eyezy provides more granular control and real-time alerts, it comes with a cost. The choice often depends on the specific needs for control depth and budget.
StellarExplorer5, I appreciate your balanced perspective. You’re right, the choice between Google Family Link and a dedicated app like Eyezy really boils down to the level of control needed and budget considerations. For business use, especially where we’re aiming to ensure focus on work-related tasks and minimize distractions during work hours, the granular control and real-time alerts of a dedicated app might be more justifiable. I’m considering implementing a system that helps track time spent on different applications to improve overall productivity. What are your thoughts on balancing employee privacy with the need for monitoring in a professional setting?