I am currently exploring ways how to improve/change Instagram, and one of my potential ideas is to create an Instagram platform specifically for teenagers, with the aim of introducing them to the social media platform. The process could involve prompting users to input their age upon downloading the app. Based on their age, they would either be directed to the regular version or, if they are underage, redirected to the youth version. To begin with, I conducted a brainstorming session to identify which features could be adapted or restricted for this purpose.
1. Restricted Content:
To ensure that sensitive content is filtered out, Instagram for Kids/Teenagers employs robust content moderation algorithms. This helps prevent the exposure to inappropriate or harmful content, creating a safer browsing experience.
2. Parental Supervision:
Recognizing the importance of parental involvement, this version of Instagram allows parents to set up and manage their child’s account. Parents can review their child’s activity, control their privacy settings, and regulate the content they see, ensuring a protective and nurturing environment.
3. Break Time:
Understanding the importance of balancing online interactions with real-life activities, Instagram for Kids/Teenagers incorporates a “Break Time” feature. This prompts users to take periodic breaks from the app, encouraging healthier screen time habits.
4. Favorites Bar:
The “Favorites Bar” allows users to create a personalized list of accounts they wish to prioritize and view content from. This feature helps foster positive connections and makes it easier for users to engage with their preferred content creators or friends.
5. Pause Push Notifications:
Recognizing the need for uninterrupted focus or reduced distractions, users can pause push notifications on Instagram for Kids/Teenagers. This feature promotes mindful usage and empowers users to manage their digital well-being.
In addition to these key features, Instagram for Kids/Teenagers offers helpful tips that are repeatedly displayed within the app to educate and empower young users:
– Privacy Management: Right from the start, users are guided on how to manage their privacy settings effectively. They are encouraged to make informed decisions about what information they share and with whom, helping them build a strong foundation for online safety.
– Interactions Management: To prevent cyberbullying and maintain a positive online community, users are provided with tools to manage their interactions. They can control who can comment on their posts, block unwanted comments, and apply comment filters to ensure a respectful and supportive environment.
– Usage Time Management: Instagram for Kids/Teenagers helps users keep track of their activity by offering insights into their usage patterns. They can set daily reminders for responsible usage, mute push notifications, and receive periodic reminders to ensure they stay up-to-date without excessive reliance on the app.
With these thoughtful features and educational prompts, Instagram for Kids/Teenagers could create a safe and enjoyable social media experience for young users. By prioritizing their well-being and providing tools for responsible digital citizenship, this platform encourages creativity, connection, and positive engagement while promoting healthy online habits.
My next step will be to create a prototype in the form of a storyboard based on these considerations, in order to illustrate how the interactions could look and what exactly would happen.
