Can I have parental controls with iPhone without an Apple device?

omar.m Said:

"Can I have parental controls with iPhone without an Apple device?: My daughter wants an iPhone. She's 11. She wants an iPhone 11. I want to have parental controls. Can I have this without having another Apple device? I do have an old Macbook Pro - dated 2012. Updates stopped 2 OS version updates ago. I am planning to buy a Mac Mini, but not imminently. Thanks."

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Setting Up Parental Controls on an iPhone 11:

Screen Time is what you are looking to use here. You'd set this up on the iPhone itself; setting it up remotely is not an option.. Go here: Use Parental Controls on your child's iPhone and iPad - Apple Support

No, you’ll need an Apple device to control remotely.

omar.m Said:

"Can I have parental controls with iPhone without an Apple device?: Thanks, that's helpful. After setting limits, is it possible for me to control remotely - like approving apps or giving bonus time? Thanks”

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You are welcome.

Controlling Remotely:

You can get notifications that will allow you to permit something or not. Turn on iMessage in your device and your child’s device. And keep the devices up to date by installing the latest updates. But, no, remotely controlling the device like screen sharing and screen recording are not features.

Turning On iMessage:

1. Go to: Settings
2. Tap: Apps (vet bottom item)
3. Tap: Messages
4. Tap: iMessage (so that it is green)

Sorry, you need an iPhone or iPad on iOS 18 to remotely control another iPhone.

Maybe if you gave a use case or two we could better advise you.