Circle Parental Controls Review 2023: #1 Best, Honest Experience

Introduction to my Circle Parental Controls

Raising children can pose many challenges; however, safeguarding their online welfare should not be one of them. The Circle Parental Control App offers a time-efficient method for ensuring the safety of your children in a short time. This software application provides preconfigured selections tailored to your children's specific age range.

Individual users can customize their settings and filters based on their preferences. The scope of a parental control application should extend beyond a standardized approach of universally blocking all applications. The primary aim should be to cultivate the growth of constructive online conduct among children. The Circle Parental Controls feature allows users to customize settings for individual family members across unlimited devices.

What is Circle Parental Control?

The Circle Parental Control application is a valuable software tool that enables parents to effectively monitor their children's usage of smartphones and tablets, thereby ensuring their online safety and security. This software application facilitates efficient monitoring of the devices belonging to family members by users.

This Circle Parental Controls review aims to provide parents with the essential information to make informed decisions regarding integrating Circle app Parental Control features into their parenting approaches. 

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An Overview of My Circle Parental Controls

In my Circle parental controls review, its very important to discuss the history of this software.The Circle is a holistic solution that consists of a Circle Parental Control device and a mobile application specifically developed to aid parents in the surveillance, administration, and supervision of their children's internet endeavors. The product was developed by Circle Media Labs, Inc., a corporation headquartered in Portland, Oregon, in 2014. 

The application was developed with an interface that is easy for users to navigate and includes a wide range of features intended to assist parents. The Circle Parental Controls App is a widely utilized software application that enables parents to effectively oversee and control the usage of electronic devices within their household, both within the confines of their home and while on vacation.

The app offers a variety of features, including web filters, browsing history tracking, bedtime schedules, pause functionality, reward systems, and other additional features. Parents personalize WiFi control and screen time based on their children's ages and family preferences.

In addition, they can impose restrictions or implement limits on social media platforms. Additionally, the application offers a personalized dashboard encouraging children to monitor and regulate their screen time effectively online.

Circle was acquired in February 2021 by Aura, a digital security company. Aura's portfolio includes various products aimed at cybersecurity, identity protection, and device security. The acquisition of Circle would be a strategic move to expand Aura's suite of safety tools, adding parental controls to its offerings.

By being part of Aura, Circle may benefit from shared technology, broader distribution, and a larger user base. Conversely, Aura can provide a more comprehensive security solution to families by incorporating Circle's specialized features into its own lineup of services.

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Features and Functionalities

There are various features of the Circle app parental controls to monitor your child's device:

Set Time Limit feature of Circle Parental Control

In my Circle parental controls review, I noticed that the application offers a wide array of functionalities, including web filtering capabilities, scheduling of bedtime routines, tracking of browsing history, implementation of reward systems, pausing functionality, and additional features.

Parents tailor the administration of WiFi access and screen time based on the particular ages of their children and family needs. Moreover, they possess the authority to enforce restrictions or enact limitations on social media platforms. Moreover, the software offers a personalized interface that promotes children's ability to monitor and manage their internet usage efficiently.

Set Bedtime of Circle Parental Control

Bedtimes allow parents to establish and manage their children's sleep patterns and can be adjusted to accommodate schedule changes during the week, weekends, and holidays. Implementing this functionality leads to the automatic cessation of internet connectivity on a kid's device while still allowing the utilization of offline applications.

Customize rules for Each Device of Circle Parental Control

In my Circle Parental Controls review, one of the primary considerations associated with utilizing a Wi-Fi network involves the implementation of consistent regulations across various smart devices. However, implementing user accounts and applying limitations on specific devices can be achieved by utilizing Circle's features, which include compatibility with gaming consoles and Smart TVs.

The Circle designates the gadgets as exclusive guest devices in scenarios where children host their peers as visitors. By establishing a connection between the device and the account, Circle will independently recognize and enforce restrictions on the user's device for each session.

Location Tracking of Circle Parental Control

This software enables users to ascertain their children's up-to-date location information promptly. Furthermore, it effectively preserves an extensive compilation of necessary information related to the specific geographical area, which can be employed for various purposes. This functionality operates with the assistance of the Global Positioning System (GPS).

The Google Maps application provides a visual representation of your children's geographical location and route. The specific geographical coordinates of the subject can be readily accessed at any given moment and from any place.

I personally tried this feature for my Circle parental control review and found it very accurate.

Focus Mode of Circle Parental Control

The focus mode feature allows users to allocate specific periods for restricting children's access to specific applications or websites. Implementing this approach is crucial in ensuring children fulfill their academic responsibilities from 7:00 to 8:00 pm. Enforcing restrictions on specific appealing applications, such as Youtube, Twitter, and Netflix, is viable during this time. It suggests students can own and use electronic devices while following appropriate behavior.

Filters of Circle Parental Control

This function reduces the likelihood of children being exposed to inappropriate content on their electronic devices. The filter feature can be implemented across various applications, encompassing but not limited to gaming. Additionally, it provides efficient customization functionalities. 

Pause Internet of Circle Parental Control

This feature enables users to terminate their internet connectivity remotely. Parents can regulate and control their children's internet usage at any given time. Implementing the ‘Pause' function enables the imposition of limitations on internet connectivity for a child's device. The function exhibits similarities to the pause button commonly observed on media players. The temporary suspension and restoration of internet connections through remote means are achievable.

Usage of Circle Parental Control

The Circle parental control application thoroughly analyzes individuals' online activities within the family unit. The report provides:

• A comprehensive overview of internet utilization.
• Encompassing the duration of usage.
• Downloaded files.
• Visited websites.

Suitable measures can be implemented to mitigate the prevalence of excessive internet utilization. This functionality effectively tracks usage specifics, encompassing the time allocated to individual applications and websites. This feature enables parents to comprehensively examine the patterns of gadget utilization exhibited by their children.

Reward Good Behavior of Circle Parental Control

The Circle provides functionality that allows users to allocate their app or screen time as a reward on a weekly or one-time basis. Parents' viewpoint regarding compensating their children for completing homework or cleaning their rooms in return for extended screen time is currently characterized by a need for more clarity and consensus.

This approach promotes screen time as a desirable reward, which may not align with the prevailing attitudes of children in numerous households. The issue of screen time frequently elicits expressions of weariness and concern among children. Conversely, incorporating a reward system can be a commendable supplement if it demonstrates efficacy for oneself and one's offspring.

Know Your Child’s Interests of Circle Parental Control

The Circle portal provides parents with comprehensive reports on their children's online activities. (I took feedback from 7 parents for this Circle parental controls review). These reports offer extensive information about diverse aspects, including the duration of online activity, frequently utilized applications, and browsing records. This functionality facilitates the detection of any potentially concerning patterns that necessitate further examination.

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Ease of Use

Is Circle easy for parents to navigate and set up?

Testing ease of use was one of the most important parts of my Circle parental controls review. Creating individual profiles for each child and assigning the unmanaged devices to their respective profiles requires a specific duration of time. The mobile application provides a convenient way of identifying compatible devices by scanning QR codes. However, the app will solely present a generic designation for each device in situations with multiple computers, smart TVs, or gaming consoles.

Once a device is associated with a user profile, it becomes feasible to implement restrictions or limitations. One significant obstacle encountered during the setup process entailed accommodating a family computer, as Circle needs more functionality to assign multiple profiles to a singular device. The statement posits that any limitations placed on the computer system would be universally applicable to all individuals.

During my Circle parental controls review, I found that Circle does not provide a dedicated application or dashboard tailored explicitly for desktop computers. The exclusive method of configuring the smartphone application is by utilizing it. So I had to go through the same process before finalizing this Circle Parental controls review.

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Installation and Set Up Process

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Performance

The efficacy of Circle Parental Controls was evidenced through its successful implementation in monitoring and regulating internet usage, particularly within child-rearing. The system facilitates the tracking of browsing history in a convenient manner, thereby serving the purpose of preventing children from accessing media content during timeframes that are deemed unsuitable. 

Preserving YouTube content safety and providing an uninterrupted viewing experience for children is greatly esteemed. An intuitive control center on an Android device facilitates the efficient management of multiple devices with minimal exertion. Including various customization features, such as the ability to set off-times, bedtimes, and rewards, plays a significant role in fostering positive habits about using electronic devices. 

Incorporating content filtering functionality, including age-appropriate settings and customizable options, has received significant recognition for its effectiveness in screening inappropriate content and mature games. The system's performance has consistently exhibited reliability, as there have been no documented internet slowdowns or unforeseen interruptions. In my Circle Parental Controls Review, the implementation of modern programming has proven effective in establishing a secure and regulated digital environment for children.

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Compatibility

I always like to check how compatible software is with all my devices. In my Circle parental controls review, I found that the parental controls feature of the Circle app facilitates efficient monitoring of a range of internet-connected devices. The app is compatible with various electronic devices, such as Android, Apple, Mac, Windows, Chromebook, Xbox, PlayStation, Kindle, smart speaker assistants, IoT devices, gaming consoles, smart TVs, and iPhones.

The software can monitor a wide range of social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, Pinterest, Flickr, Google+, WhatsApp, Tumblr, Kik, Reddit, GroupMe, Ask.fm, Google Drive, iCloud, Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, Comcast Email, Hotmail, AOL Mail, Slack, Musical.ly, and Kidzworld.

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Circle Parental Control Pricing

Plans Overview:

How much does Circle cost? An important question for Circle Parental Controls review. Circle Parental Control is now integrated into Aura's comprehensive security offerings. The service is included in Aura's Family plan, which is priced at $32 per month when billed annually or $65 per month when billed monthly.

Initial vs. Renewal Rates:

There is no specific information on renewal rates, but it's advised to keep an eye out for any changes in pricing after the first year.

Comparison to Industry Standard:

Given that Aura's Family Plan includes a wide array of services such as identity theft protection, financial fraud protection, and many more, it may appear to be more expensive than standalone parental control services. However, the extensive feature set can offer a better overall value.

Additional Costs:

No additional costs are mentioned for using Circle Parental Control within the Aura Family plan.

Payment Options:

Circle Parental Control accepts all major credit cards, as well as PayPal. They also offer the option of annual billing, which comes at a discounted rate.

Contract Terms:

The service operates on a month-to-month basis, with the option to cancel anytime. However, opting for the annual plan offers substantial savings but comes with a 12-month commitment.

Free Trial:

Yes, Circle Parental Control offers a 14-day free trial for its Premium Plan, giving you ample time to test the software's capabilities before committing.

Refund Policy and Money-back Guarantee:

They offer a 60-day money-back guarantee if you're not satisfied with their service. This is generous compared to industry standards, where a 14- to 21-day refund window is more common.

Promotional Deals or Discounts:

Aura is currently offering up to 60% off on their Family Plan.

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Customer Support & Resources

Navigating parental control software can sometimes be daunting. It's a good thing then that Circle Parental Control offers a robust customer support system that makes this process less of a hassle.

How Responsive and Helpful Are They?

In my experience, Circle's customer support is pretty on the ball. They offer multiple channels for support, including live chat, email, and phone support. I tried reaching out via live chat and was connected with a representative within a couple of minutes. They were knowledgeable and addressed my queries effectively. The phone support is equally responsive, although it operates only during business hours.

What Resources Are Available?

Circle Parental Control also offers a variety of resources to help you get the most out of their software:

• FAQ Section: Covers most of the commonly asked questions, from setup to functionality.
• User Guides: Detailed guides that walk you through setting up and using the software effectively. Perfect for those who prefer step-by-step instructions.
• Video Tutorials: These are excellent for visual learners and cover everything from basic setup to advanced features.
• Community Forum: A platform for users to share tips and solutions. It's always helpful to hear how others are utilizing the software.
• Blog: Regularly updated with articles that provide tips on parenting in the digital age, as well as how-to articles on maximizing the features of your Circle Parental Control.

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Privacy and Security

When it comes to software that's designed to monitor and control your child's internet usage, privacy and security are of utmost importance. Next in my Circle Parental Controls review is a detailed look at how Circle Parental Control handles these critical issues.

Analysis of the Software's Privacy Policy

Circle Parental Control has a comprehensive privacy policy that spells out what data they collect, how it's used, and who has access to it. Their privacy policy is compliant with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other regional privacy laws. While they do collect some user data to facilitate the service, it's generally anonymized and aggregated for analytical purposes.

Data Handling Practices

The data collected by Circle Parental Control is encrypted and securely stored in data centers with stringent security measures. They have strong protocols to prevent unauthorized access, including multi-factor authentication and regular security audits. However, it's always a good idea to read their privacy policy in detail to make sure you're comfortable with their data handling practices.

Protection for Both Child and Parent

The software does a commendable job of balancing monitoring capabilities with privacy concerns:

• For Children: The software allows parents to control what data is collected about their children. It does not provide any third-party access to this sensitive information.
• For Parents: Circle Parental Control offers the ability for parents to customize settings according to the level of monitoring they're comfortable with. You're in full control of how much or how little data is collected and monitored.

Encryption Standards

Encryption is another cornerstone of Circle's approach to privacy and security. All data transmitted between your devices and their servers are encrypted using industry-standard encryption algorithms. This adds an additional layer of security, making it even harder for unauthorized parties to gain access to sensitive information.

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Limitations and Drawbacks

Here are some limitations and drawbacks of Circle Parental Controls:

1. The compatibility of the Circle parental control app with various router models may be limited.
2. The Circle platform has no intuitive interface for autonomously managing individual user settings on shared devices, including personal computers, tablets, or Xbox consoles.
3. The Circle device does not possess the capability to manage and control computer usage in offline settings effectively.
4. The category-based time limits offered by Circle may yield a different level of information.
5. Circle exclusively grants users access to website information. Still, it must provide comprehensive data about search queries or the specific content of viewed videos on platforms such as Google or YouTube.

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User Circle Parental Control App Reviews and Testimonials

Getting insights from actual users can provide a well-rounded understanding of what the service is really like. Below are some avenues where you can find real-life experiences and feedback about Aura and Circle Parental Control.

Circle Parental Control on TrustPilot:

Aura – Digital Security receives overwhelmingly positive reviews from customers. The majority of reviewers commend the company for its effective, prompt, and insightful customer service, particularly in situations of identity theft or data breaches. The company's agents are often highlighted for their patience, knowledge, and the ability to provide immediate solutions. However, there are a few negative reviews that point to misinformation about the scope of device coverage and some issues with refunds. Overall, the company seems to excel in offering prompt security alerts and fraud prevention services.

Circle Parental Control on Reddit:

Some users have reported technical glitches or difficulties in setting up Circle on their network, although these issues may vary depending on the specific router and network configuration. Many users have praised Circle for its user-friendly interface, which makes it easy for parents to set up and manage controls for their children's devices.The content filtering and blocking features of Circle have received positive feedback for their effectiveness in keeping children away from inappropriate content.

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Conclusion and Personal Recommendation

The Circle Parental Controls software facilitates establishing a secure and all-encompassing digital environment for children within the context of contemporary society, which is heavily influenced by technology.

Assume you seek a pragmatic strategy to manage your children's online behaviors and enforce restrictions to safeguard them against excessive screen time and exposure to inappropriate content. In this particular scenario, Circle proofs emerge as an exceptional selection.

Personal Experience

Being a parent in the digital age comes with its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to managing my children's screen time and online activities. That's where the Circle Parental Control app came to the rescue. As a tech-savvy parent, I was keen on finding a solution that offered both simplicity and robust control over my kids' devices, and Circle delivered on both fronts.

The initial setup was a breeze. I connected the Circle device to our home network and downloaded the app on my smartphone. From there, I could easily identify and categorize each of my kids' devices, which was a huge plus since we have a variety of gadgets at home.

One of the standout features for me was the ability to set screen time limits. I could allocate specific time slots for different apps and websites, ensuring that homework was a priority during the week while still allowing some leisure time on weekends. The bedtime feature was a game-changer too; no more late-night device use under the covers.

What is Parental Control Circle best used for?

The Circle Parental Controls system presents a cost-effective solution for overseeing the internet usage of one's family. The availability of multiple subscription plans highlights the cost-effectiveness and long-term benefits associated with this approach.

What is Circle Smart Parental Controls not best used for?

The effectiveness of Circle Parental Controls may be limited for individuals with complex and specific needs beyond the boundaries of their home setting, such as those in business or institutional contexts. The main focus is implementing content filtering and monitoring systems designed explicitly for family-oriented objectives.

Circle Parental Controls Alternatives

Here is a complete comparison of Circle Parental Control alternatives:

Rank	Software	Key Features	Pricing	My View
1.🥇	Qustodio	Time scheduling, Content filtering, Social monitoring	$49.46/year for 5 devices Check Pricing	Best for Comprehensive Monitoring	Try For Free
2.🥈	Norton Family	Web monitoring, Time limits, Location tracking	$49.99/year for unlimited devices Check Pricing	Best for Multi-Device Families	Try For Free
3.🥉	Net Nanny	Real-time alerts, Profanity masking, Screen time management	$39.99/year for 1 device Check Pricing	Best for Profanity Monitoring	Try For Free
4	Kaspersky Safe Kids	App management, Real-time alerts, GPS tracking	$14.99/year for 500 devices Check Pricing	Best for Budget-Friendly Option	Try For Free
5	MMGuardian	Call & SMS monitoring, Screen time management, App control	$3.99/month or $34.99/year for 1 device Check Pricing	Best for Call & Text Monitoring	Try For Free
6	Bark	Text monitoring, Email monitoring, Social media monitoring	$9/month or $99/year for unlimited devices Check Pricing	Best for Social Media & Email Monitoring	Try For Free
7	Mobicip	Internet filter, App blocker, Screen time limit	$49.99/year for 5 devices Check Pricing	Best for Content Filtering	Try For Free
8	Screen Time	Time control, App control, Reward system	$6.99/month for 5 devices Check Pricing	Best for Time Management	Try For Free
9	FamilyTime	Location tracking, Geofencing, Time limits	$27/year for 1 device Check Pricing	Best for Location Tracking	Try For Free
10	OurPact	Screen time management, App blocking, Family locator	Free to $6.99/month for 20 devices Check Pricing	Best for Screen Time Management	Try For Free

My Final Word

If there are any uncertainties concerning the suitability of this methodology, individuals can utilize a complimentary 14-day trial period and a 30-day refund policy. The subsequent analysis of Circle Parental Control seeks to offer valuable perspectives for individuals concerned about their children's Internet usage and excessive reliance on mobile devices. 

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FAQs

That's All For Now;

Thank you for taking the time to read this comprehensive Aura and its Circle Parental Controls Review. We appreciate your interest in keeping your digital world secure and hope this article has been informative. We invite you to come back for more news and reviews on cybersecurity software to stay ahead of the digital curve. For further reading and insights, don't hesitate to explore the articles listed below. Stay safe online!