Verizon Wireless (NYSE:VZ) is making it easier for parents to control their children's wireless phone usage. The company today launched Verizon FamilyBase, an Android-based service that lets parents monitor and limit calling, texting, app usage and app purchases as well as set time restrictions and review contact lists. Parents also can remotely lock a phone on demand.
The service is available for $5 per month for up to 10 lines and is available on most Android phones running version 2.1 or higher. The service is not available for iOS, Windows or BlackBerry (NASDAQ:BBRY) phones.
Customers can sign up for FamilyBase service and load the companion and parent apps at familybase.vzw.com or by calling "SAFE" or texting SAFE to #7233. The apps are also available through Google (NASDAQ:GOOG) Play.
Verizon isn't the only carrier to offer such a service. Sprint (NYSE:S) offers Guardian, an Android-based mobile security app that bundles family safety and device security. The app is available on the company's portfolio of Android smartphones. The Sprint service costs $4.99 per month or Sprint will let customers pay an annual fee of $49.99 for up to five lines.
For more:
- see this press release
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Sprint launches Guardian safety app bundles for Android
Sprint and Safely Help Families Manage Wireless Phone Usage with Innovative Mobile Controls