List every way a person can enter the phone, remove or lock unsupervised profiles, inspect manufacturer services, and verify the child cannot switch into an unmanaged environment.
Why this decision matters
This is one of the highest-value Android checks because the Family Link dashboard can look correct while another profile has different apps, browsing, or permissions. The exact names vary, so inspect the handset rather than following a brand-blind checklist.
A practical starting sequence
Audit sign-in routes
Look for Users, Multiple users, Guest, Kids Space, Secure Folder, second space, or similar manufacturer features.
Audit software routes
Check alternate app stores, manufacturer browsers, game hubs, preinstalled social features, and the ability to install unknown apps.
Lock and test
Disable unnecessary routes or protect them with an adult credential, then ask the child to switch users or open the alternate store.
What the child experiences
A child should not be surprised by two different rule sets on the same phone. Explain which profile is theirs and why other profiles are unavailable.
Manufacturer options change by model, region, carrier, and Android version. Family Link cannot describe every handset-specific route.
When to review it
Repeat this audit after major system updates, device repairs, a factory reset, or installation of manufacturer account services.
Use a handset-aware Android setup
The Android guide includes a device-level audit alongside the Google family controls.
Current official sources
Interfaces and defaults change. These first-party sources were checked for this page; verify the live device before publishing or relying on an exact menu path.
- Google: Sign a child into an Android device
- Google: Devices that can be supervised
- Google: Set up parental controls with Family Link