How Disney Is Helping Parents Control What Their Kids Do On The Internet - Walt Disney (NYSE:DIS)

Walt Disney Co DIS introduced Circle, a smart device and app that allows parents to filter content, limit screen time, and more.
Circle synchs wirelessly and can manage every device across a network.
Parents have the ability to "pause the internet" which temporarily disables access to a specific device, or the entire home.

Disney began selling Circle, a tiny box that allows parents to control what their kids can and cant do on the internet – and when. After buying the $99 box, parents can download from the App Store an app that pairs with Circle. Parents can now set time limits for total daily internet usage, establish a timeframe for inactivity, filter content, and even "pause the internet" for family time. The only cost for Circle is the one-time price for the device itself. There are no recurring monthly or subscription fees. However, the app is only compatible with iOS devices with an Android launch scheduled for 2016. Circle can trace its beginnings back to 2013 when it tried to gain financing through Kickstarter. The company ultimately failed to raise its goals but two years later, it is now partnered with Disney. "Let's be honest: You really have no idea what your kids are up to online," Disney said in its

promotional site for Circle. "What if you could see what apps and platforms your kids used the most. Even better, what if you could take these insights and start a conversation with your kids?" An interesting feature includes the ability to shut off internet access permanently when it is bed time. No more hiding a connected device under the covers and pretending to be asleep. "with BedTime, now even devices have to turn in," Disney added on its site. Circle also collects data and breaks down how a user spent their time on the internet. The platform can sort time spent on social media apps (such as Instagram, Snapchat) and can determine the amount of time spent streaming videos on Netflix.

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