Samsung to gray out unapproved apps on Galaxy devices in 2027
The parental control feature, arriving with the next One UI update, covers both preinstalled apps and apps a child has already downloaded.
Samsung has announced new parental control features for Galaxy devices that will gray out some apps until a parent or guardian approves them. The change is scheduled to arrive starting in 2027 as part of the next One UI software update, according to androidauthority.com.
The controls will apply to both preinstalled apps and apps a child has already downloaded to the device. Samsung did not specify which apps will be grayed out or what criteria will determine it.
For setup, Samsung recommends creating or joining a family group, or registering a Samsung Child Account for children under 13. Guardians are also advised to turn on Samsung Parental Controls to approve or block apps.
Setup guidance
The company's instructions place the approval step inside the existing family and child account structure rather than a separate tool. Beyond the 2027 rollout window and the next One UI release, Samsung has not given a more precise timeline.
Quick answers
When will Samsung's new parental controls arrive?
Samsung says the features will roll out starting in 2027 as part of the next One UI software update.
Which apps are affected?
Samsung says both preinstalled apps and apps the child has already downloaded are covered, but it did not specify which apps will be grayed out or the criteria used.
How do parents set it up?
Samsung recommends creating or joining a family group, or setting up a Samsung Child Account for children under 13, then turning on Samsung Parental Controls to approve or block apps.