China’s top internet regulator, the Cyberspace Administration of China, has introduced an innovative plan to encourage healthy habits and promote “good morality” and “socialist values” in young people. The proposal, released on Wednesday, introduces a “minor mode” for mobile devices, apps, and app stores. This mode aims to restrict the daily screen time of children and teenagers, promoting a balanced usage of technology.
China is driving this mission to safeguard young people from too much screen time and harmful online content. They have put forth draft rules, open for public discussion until September 2, that could significantly change how China’s vast number of internet users engage with digital devices.
In the suggested “minor mode,” mobile applications would automatically turn off after children and teenagers have used them for a set amount of time. The recommended daily screen time limits are 40 minutes for those under eight, one hour for ages eight to 16, and two hours for youths aged 16 to 18. Additionally, those under 18 won’t use screens from 10 pm to 6 am with the minor mode.
Users will get reminders to take breaks if they use their devices for over 30 minutes. The proposal also desires mobile internet providers to create content that promotes “core socialist values” and a sense of national community.
These actions show China’s effort to balance technology use and protect young people’s well-being. Parents support the plan, seeing benefits like protecting kids’ eyes and having positive content. “It’s good. It protects their vision, and the content in minor mode is positive,” said a parent.
The critical aspect of these rules is to tackle myopia and its impact on Chinese youth. According to experts, this problem has been associated with extended screen time and insufficient exposure to natural sunlight. By limiting screen time, the government hopes to address this health concern and improve the overall well-being of its young population.
The proposed regulations go beyond screen time limits and content restrictions. Mobile internet service providers are called upon to contribute to the initiative by creating content that promotes “core socialist values” and fosters a sense of national community. The rules don’t just limit screen time and content. Mobile internet providers are also asked to create content that supports “core socialist values” and builds a national community feeling.
Parents like this proposal for health reasons, but it might change how China’s youth use mobile devices. China has many internet users, and if the proposal is accepted, it could bring young people to use technology differently.
China is using the time until September 2 to figure out how to balance modern technology use and the health of its future leaders. This proposal’s result might show other countries how to deal with children and teenagers using phones too much.
