For every feature in the Family Safety app to work, certain device permissions need to be accepted or allowed. Even if Family Safety app settings are set the way you want, device-level permissions can still block the features from working if they aren’t turned on properly. These permissions vary by device and are listed based on which Family Safety features you want for each family member.
Important: Location and driving safety features in Microsoft Family Safety are going away. Learn more.
Select the platform where you are using the Microsoft Family Safety app below for more info:
Note: The names and steps for permissions may differ slightly, depending on the make, model, and Android version of each device used.
Family Safety feature |
Permission |
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Content filters |
Accessibility service
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Battery optimization
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Usage access
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Device admin
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Drive Safety This lets you see where you drove and details about each drive. You can choose to share drives with your family. |
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Location sharing
Location alerts** This lets you know when a family member arrives at or departs from a saved place. **Location alerts are a premium feature available with a Microsoft 365 Family subscription. |
Location access
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Notifications
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Notifications
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Note: These steps may differ slightly, depending on the version of iPhone or iPad being used.
Family Safety feature |
Permission |
Notifications
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Notifications
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Location sharing
Location alerts This lets you know when a family member arrives or departs a saved place. **Location alerts are a premium feature available with a Microsoft 365 Family subscription. |
Allow location access
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Drive Safety
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Allow location access These are the same settings you’d use for location sharing; they allow the app to access your current location. How to set it for Family Safety Settings > Family Safety > Location > Always For iOS 14+: after allowing location access, turn on Precise Location |
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