Apple has filed for a patent (number 20220405411) for “configuring context-based restrictions for a computer device.” It involves, among other things, ways for parents to restrict what kids are watching on Macs, iPhones, iPads, etc.
The patent filing relates to operating a computing device, and specifically to remotely restricting use of the device in particular contexts. In the filing, Apple notes that modern mobile devices are often a distraction during the day when the user of such devices should be focused on a productive activity, like working, learning, or participating in some other productive activity.
Apple’s idea is to allow a parental computing device to restrict the use of another computing device in certain contexts. For example, a parent may wish to use the parent’s computing device to restrict her children’s use of the children’s computing devices while the children are in school while the children should be participating in some other activity.
For example, the parent’s controller device may be enabled to remotely configure and control the usage of the satellite device(s) without needing to physically access the satellite device. The parent may implement limitations, permissions, or different policies that may govern, for example, the ability of the satellite device to communicate with other devices, execute various application functionalities, run any particular software, and manage its own settings.”
