How can I password protect app downloads through the play store?

[HBKSeanMichael]

My 5 yr old just downloads everything in my tablet. I know I can password protect purchases but how can I password protect all downloads???

 

[VidJunky]

I searched this and found this thread which says that this is not possible... https://support.google.com/googlepl...etrics-for-all-downloads-even-free-apps?hl=en

My first instinct was to put it in a secure or hidden folder. Many recent devices have this built in to the MFGRs UI as a native feature. Then I remembered that they leave a copy out in the open. I did a little testing on my Samsung and found that I can place an app in the secure folder then uninstall the open copy and still have a working hidden copy. The thing though is that the Play Store cannot be uninstalled so there will always be a working visible copy. All this to say that perhaps there is an app lock app at the Play Store that would not leave a visible copy...?

I attempted to find a way, any way, to require a log in to access the Play Store, open the app, anything but was unable to find a wall of any kind.

Alternatively you could incorporate something like Kid Zone. I mean at 5 my kids were content with the Kid Zone offerings. If you're not familiar with KZ it is an mode that allows parents to turn devices over to kids without the worry that they will get into things they shouldn't, folders and pics on the device, browsing the WWW, other age inappropriate things, kind of like pinning an app. Depending on age, there are games and activities geared around the age of the child. The activities increase in sophistication as the child ages and it does this automatically. I haven't used it in forever but it used to allow you to import your own personal games too. That way if your child had a game they were already familiar with and liked they could still have it in this safe space.

Since were talking about a tab, some tabs have the option to allow multiple profiles. You could set up a guest profile or a child profile, it depends on the tab's features, that would grant limited access and likely wouldn't allow downloading.

These are just the things I could think of, mostly geared towards your question, but if you got creative I'm sure there are many more solutions online that may fit your needs better.

Best wishes

 

[B. Diddy]

I agree with VidJunky -- the best thing to do would be to make sure a kid-friendly launcher is active when you let him use your tablet. Kids Place is another good one.