Panda

WHAT IS IT?
Panda Dome Family, part of Panda Security’s suite of cybersecurity products, includes parental controls designed to help parents manage and monitor their children’s online activities. Like other offerings from security companies, Panda’s primary focus is on digital security, with parental controls as a supplementary feature rather than the main focus.

Good Aspects of Panda

Comprehensive Web Filtering
Panda Dome provides effective web filtering, allowing parents to restrict access to inappropriate or harmful content based on categories (such as adult content, violence, or gambling). This feature helps ensure a safer browsing experience for children.

Location Tracking
Panda Dome Family includes real-time GPS tracking, allowing parents to check their child’s location and view location history. 

App Management and Blocking
Parents can view which apps are installed on their child’s device and block access to specific apps. This feature helps parents limit usage of non-essential or potentially unsafe apps, promoting healthier app habits.

Device Usage Reports
Panda Dome offers reports on device activity, giving parents an overview of their child’s screen time and browsing habits. 

User-Friendly Interface
​Panda’s interface is designed to be easy to use, with straightforward settings that make it accessible for parents who are less familiar with technology. 

Not So Good Aspects of Panda

No AI-Based Content Monitoring
Unlike some parental control apps that use AI to detect risky behavior, Panda Dome does not provide advanced content analysis or alerts for issues like cyberbullying, sexting, or other concerning behaviors. . 

Basic Screen Time Management
While Panda Dome provides basic app blocking, it lacks detailed screen time management options. Parents cannot set time limits for specific apps or set detailed usage schedules, which may frustrate those looking for more granular control
Battery Drain on Devices
The constant location tracking can be a significant drain on battery life, particularly for children’s devices. This may require kids to charge their phones more frequently, especially if they’re on the go.

Limited iOS Functionality
As with many parental control apps, Panda Dome’s functionality is more limited on iOS devices compared to Android. 

No Call or Text Monitoring
Panda Dome does not offer call or text monitoring, which can be a downside for parents wanting insight into their child’s communications. 
Less Robust Compared to Dedicated Parental Control Apps
Since Panda Dome’s parental controls are a secondary feature of a larger security suite, it lacks the depth and customisation found in dedicated apps like Qustodio or Bark