So, I bought iPhone 4s' for my girls and I would like to monitor their activity and approve apps that they want to download. Thing is, I don't have an Apple device. I like my Android and PC devices. Is there a way for me to set all of this up without me myself having an "i" device? Thanks.
Option 4 would be to sell the child's iDevice and switch to Android or even Windows Phone.
This is a frustrating problem and it's hard for me to imagine any real technical reason for it. I'm quite certain Apple employs plenty of folks smart enough to solve the problem, so I believe the issue is driven purely by marketing - yet another way for Apple to sell more devices.
There's no good reason my under-13 child's iPhone can't trigger an email to the address associated with my apple ID requesting permission to buy an app. The email would include a link that I could click, triggering a push notification to my child's iDevice and allowing the download to proceed. No need for a second iDevice.
By the way, I'm new to this forum. Can anyone recommend a way to make such a suggestion / request to Apple?
No need. That functionality already exists through Family Sharing. The only reason it was not an option for the OP is because they stated they did not have an Apple Device themselves.
If have an Apple device yourself, when in Family Sharing there is "Ask to Buy" Which will in fact send a request to the Family Organizer's devices when a child wants to buy something from their device.
Request and make purchases with Ask to Buy - Apple Support
http://www.apple.com/icloud/family-sharing/
Options, from most expensive to least:
1. Buy an iPod Touch to manage Family Sharing from.
2. Set up their devices with your ID, and only provide your password when the need to buy something.
3. Set up their devices with their own Apple ID, and then set up restrictions on their devices so store content is limited to only ratings or age groups. The Restrictions passcode can be set independently by you.
About Restrictions (parental controls) on your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support
Thanks Phil0124 for your reply. Disappointing though. What are my options as a parent? Should I log into their devices with my Apple ID and download apps and then log off? Is there a way for them to browse the store with their own Apple ID but not be able to install apps?
Thanks,
Andrew
Unfortunately no. You need a Mac or iDevice to setup Family Sharing and be able to approve apps.
Phil0124,
You've been most helpful. Thank you for your time.
Andrew
Manage Apple ID for Child from PC?
