YouTube now safe for kids

YouTube has released a new app for children called YouTube Kids.

The app runs on smartphones and tablets and focuses on child-appropriate content.

The free app from Google's online video service was available for download from yesterday and features kid-friendly design, with big icons and minimal scrolling.

The new app, which will be separate from the mainstream YouTube mobile app, will also feature parental controls such as a timer to limit a child's screen time.

Last year USA Today reported that Google was planning to roll out child-friendly versions of its most popular products in a bid to be "fun and safe for children".

Internet companies such as Google and Facebook do not offer their services to children under 13.