The BBC wants to monitor how young people use the Internet with a new app.
Dubbed Own It, the “wellbeing” program uses artificial intelligence to evaluate a child’s mood and offer advice or encouragement as needed.
“The digital world is a fantastic place for people to learn and share, but we know many young people struggle to find a healthy online balance, especially when they get their first phones,” Alice Webb, director of BBC Children’s, said in a statement.
“Our Own It app gives them a helping hand as they navigate this new experience so that they can make the most of the time they spend on their phones whilst avoiding some of the pitfalls,” she added.
While kids text with friends, keep a diary of their emotions, and access other BBC-commissioned content, the app’s special keyboard offers real-time help: It may encourage the user to talk to a trusted adult, or simply remind them to think twice before sharing personal details.
“We’re using cutting-edge machine learning technology in a way no one has done before,” Webb said. “Putting help, support, assistance, and a bit of fun, too, directly into young people’s hands at the moments when they need it most.”
Despite encouraging children to pick up their phone, Own It also tries to manage screen time, passing on advice about responsible online behavior.
The app offers advice alongside the text and messages children type (via BBC)
Prince William, a father of three, approves of the application, which he called a “positive and practical” outcome from his Royal Foundation Taskforce on the Prevention of Cyberbullying.
Data from the app is not shared with parents; Own It does not provide reports or feedback to parents. Everything the child types remains private to their phone.
BBC’s kid-friendly platform has been in the works since last year, and has attracted partners like the Mental Health Foundation, the Anti-Bullying Alliance, the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC), the Diana Award, and Childnet.
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