Our filter works in two layers. First, only apps approved for your phone can be installed. Second, even inside approved apps, the filter blocks certain internet addresses.
Blocked on every phone
Web browsers, and in-app browsers (web pages that open inside an app)
GIFs and stickers
Screen rotation
Video in Google Drive and in the support chat
Gemini in Google Messages and Meta AI in WhatsApp (AI)
The Google Translate microphone doesn’t work
Blocked by default, but can be turned on by request
Pictures inside Gmail. Some image sources can’t be unblocked.
Chat inside Gmail.
Mobile hotspot.
Texting, on a phone where it’s turned off.
Turning these on is a paid request with your filter PIN, like a new app.
What the filter generally can’t filter
The filter can block an app’s internet access, but it generally can’t filter content inside an app, like pictures, videos, statuses and posts. For example:
Google Maps: some pictures can be blocked, but not all. Waze has no pictures.
WhatsApp: if a WhatsApp request is approved, Channels are blocked, but Status works and isn’t filtered. Profile pictures and media in chats aren’t filtered either.
Music, podcast and sports apps: pictures, videos and podcasts inside are generally not filtered.
Ads inside Gmail can’t be blocked.
Please keep this in mind before you request an app.
Want a stricter phone?
Parents can ask to remove apps, block videos or block some Maps pictures. See “How can I make my child’s phone stricter?”