Quick answer: The best parental control app for iPhone, iOS & Android in 2025 is mSpy!
Parental control apps have become essential tools for families in 2025. With children spending more time online for school, gaming, and social media, these apps help parents filter harmful content, set screen time limits, and track real-time locations. They act as digital guardians, protecting kids from risks such as cyberbullying, online predators, and inappropriate websites while promoting healthier online habits.
Choosing the right app can feel overwhelming since every family’s needs are different. Some solutions focus on advanced monitoring like social media tracking and keystroke logging, while others prioritize simplicity and balance with content filtering and easy-to-use dashboards. The FAQ section below answers the most common questions, helping you pick the best parental control app for your family’s unique needs.
mSpy is one of the most advanced parental control apps I’ve tested, offering a wide range of monitoring tools that provide parents with comprehensive oversight of their child’s digital activities. From tracking text messages, calls, and GPS locations to monitoring popular social media platforms, mSpy gives parents the ability to identify potential issues early and intervene proactively. You can also read my full mSpy review.
Key Features
One of mSpy’s standout features is its keylogger, which records every keystroke made on the device. This provides insights into search queries, private chats, and hidden conversations across apps, helping parents detect signs of cyberbullying, risky behavior, or inappropriate communication.
mSpy also supports social media monitoring for platforms like WhatsApp, Snapchat, and Instagram—something many competitors fail to deliver. Combined with custom keyword alerts, parents can be notified instantly if terms related to drugs, violence, or explicit content appear on their child’s device.
Ease of Use & Setup
Installing mSpy requires jailbreaking on iOS or rooting on Android for advanced features like social media tracking and keylogging. While this may seem complex, the app provides an extensive installation guide with step-by-step instructions. In my testing, the setup process was straightforward, even with moderate technical skills.
Performance & Stealth Mode
mSpy runs discreetly in the background with no noticeable impact on performance or battery life. This stealth mode ensures that children remain unaware of monitoring, allowing parents to gather accurate insights without interference.
Pricing
At $48.99 per month, mSpy is priced on the higher end of parental control apps. However, its depth of features, reliability, and frequent updates make it a worthwhile investment for parents seeking advanced control. Customer support is responsive and knowledgeable, adding extra value to the subscription.
✅ Pros
Comprehensive monitoring (calls, texts, GPS, social media)
eyeZy is designed with simplicity and ease of use in mind, making it one of the most user-friendly parental control apps available. During testing, its fast setup process and intuitive dashboard stood out, ensuring even less tech-savvy parents could install and use it without difficulty. You can also read my full eyeZy review.
Key Features
The Magic Alerts feature was particularly impressive, sending instant notifications when a child entered or exited geofenced zones. Updates were accurate to the meter, providing real-time reassurance for location tracking.
Social media monitoring on apps like WhatsApp and Instagram gave detailed insights into online interactions, while the scheduling feature allowed blocking of specific apps during school hours or bedtime, reducing distractions.
Performance & Compatibility
eyeZy performed seamlessly on both iOS and Android devices, including older models, ensuring it works across a variety of family setups. GPS tracking was consistently accurate and reliable, making it a dependable option for keeping track of a child’s location.
Pricing
At $47.99 per month, eyeZy is priced competitively. Unlocking advanced tools like keylogging or remote access requires jailbreaking (iOS) or rooting (Android). Fortunately, the app provides step-by-step guides that simplify the process for parents wanting maximum functionality.
FlexiSPY is a true surveillance powerhouse, offering live call interception, ambient recording, and real-time camera access. These tools provide unparalleled visibility into a child’s environment and activities, making it one of the most comprehensive parental monitoring apps available. You can also read my full FlexiSPY review.
Key Features
The ability to intercept live calls and monitor VoIP conversations on apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Viber sets FlexiSPY apart from other apps. During testing, the ambient recording feature stood out, allowing discreet listening to the surroundings of the device. Additionally, camera access delivered real-time video feeds, providing transparency unmatched by any competitor.
Performance & Compatibility
FlexiSPY works across iOS and Android, though jailbreaking (iPhone) or rooting (Android) is required to unlock its full capabilities. Despite the technical setup, the detailed installation guides and responsive customer support make the process manageable. The app also supports older devices, ensuring flexibility for families using legacy hardware.
Pricing
At $68 per month, FlexiSPY is on the expensive side. However, its advanced surveillance capabilities—far beyond what most parental control apps provide—make it worth the investment for parents who need comprehensive monitoring and are comfortable with a more hands-on setup process.
✅ Pros
Live call interception & VoIP monitoring
Ambient recording & real-time camera access
Works on both Android & iOS (with rooting/jailbreaking)
Discreet operation in background
Regular updates for OS compatibility
❌ Cons
High monthly cost ($68)
Requires rooting or jailbreaking for full features
Qustodio impressed me with its balanced mix of features, combining precise web filtering, accurate real-time location tracking, and strong parental controls. The platform worked seamlessly across both iOS and Android, ensuring parents can stay informed no matter the device.
Key Features
Qustodio’s web filtering effectively blocked inappropriate content while still allowing access to educational resources. The screen time management tool was especially impressive, letting me set tailored limits for each child—perfect for families with different schedules. Social media monitoring for Facebook and Instagram provided additional insights into online activity, helping identify potential risks early.
Performance & Pricing
At just $54.95 per year, Qustodio offers excellent value, particularly for families with multiple children. It performed reliably on both newer and older devices, handling OS updates smoothly without requiring reinstallation. The real-time location tracking feature was accurate with minimal delays, keeping parents updated at all times.
Ease of Use
Qustodio’s intuitive dashboard makes complex tasks—like setting geofencing boundaries or reviewing activity reports—simple and efficient. Parents new to monitoring apps will appreciate the minimal learning curve, while more advanced users will enjoy the customization options available.
✅ Pros
Accurate real-time location tracking
Powerful screen time management
Effective web filtering
Social media monitoring (Facebook, Instagram)
Affordable annual pricing
❌ Cons
Lacks advanced surveillance features like FlexiSPY
Social media monitoring limited to select platforms
Bark stands out as a monitoring app focused on social media and messaging control, making it ideal for parents concerned about their child’s online interactions. The app monitors activity across 30+ platforms, including Snapchat, TikTok, and Discord, detecting signs of cyberbullying, sexting, or depression-related behavior.
Key Features
Bark offers detailed, actionable alerts that give parents the insights they need to start meaningful conversations with their children. Alongside social media monitoring, Bark also includes screen time management and web filtering tools, making it a well-rounded solution for online safety. The app is compatible with both iOS and Android, including older OS versions, ensuring wide accessibility.
Performance & Pricing
During testing, Bark processed large volumes of data efficiently, sending timely alerts without noticeable delays. Priced at just $14 per month or $99 annually, Bark is one of the most affordable parental control apps with such advanced social media oversight. It also runs unobtrusively in the background, minimizing disruptions while maintaining strong functionality.
Ease of Use
Setup is quick and requires minimal technical skills, making it accessible for parents who aren’t tech-savvy. Another plus is Bark’s inclusion of parenting resources and conversation guides, helping families address sensitive issues flagged by the app.
✅ Pros
Monitors 30+ social media & messaging platforms
Detailed and actionable alerts
Affordable pricing at $14/mo or $99/yr
Includes screen time & web filtering
Parent resources for tough conversations
❌ Cons
No advanced features like live call interception
Best suited for social media oversight, less for full-device control
Net Nanny is one of the most trusted parental control apps for content filtering, offering powerful tools to block harmful websites and apps while allowing safe, educational resources. Its advanced filtering algorithms effectively manage adult content, violent media, and other flagged categories, ensuring children enjoy a secure online experience.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Net Nanny supports iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS, making it easy to monitor all devices in the household. The Family Feed provides real-time updates on device activity, helping parents identify patterns and intervene when necessary. From browsing history to app usage, these insights help encourage healthy digital habits.
Screen Time & Location Tools
Parents can set daily screen time schedules—blocking access during meals, bedtime, or study hours—to promote balanced device use. Location tracking and geofencing features add another layer of safety, allowing parents to set safe zones and receive alerts if their child leaves designated areas. While location updates sometimes lagged slightly, performance remained consistent and reliable in my tests.
Pricing & Value
At $54.99 per year for a single device (with affordable family plans available), Net Nanny offers premium-level protection at a fair price. Though not the cheapest parental control app, its robust filtering, intuitive interface, and excellent compatibility make it a worthwhile investment for families focused on online safety.
✅ Pros
Highly accurate content filtering
Cross-platform support (iOS, Android, Windows, macOS)
OurPact provides parents with an intuitive and effective way to manage screen time, making it a favorite for families aiming to establish healthier device usage habits. Its app blocking and customized scheduling tools allow parents to tailor routines, such as limiting social media during study hours or creating tech-free family dinners.
Key Features
One of the standout tools is the instant app block/unblock feature, giving parents the flexibility to respond quickly when a child is overly distracted by certain apps. The geofencing function adds another layer of safety by sending notifications whenever a child enters or exits pre-defined locations. Additionally, the Screen Time Allowance feature teaches responsible self-regulation by letting children allocate their own daily screen time.
Compatibility & Ease of Use
OurPact supports iOS and Android devices, including older operating systems. Its clean, straightforward interface makes it accessible for parents of all technical skill levels. While it lacks advanced tools like social media monitoring, its focus on screen time balance makes it a powerful, easy-to-use parental control app.
Pricing
At just $6.99 per month for premium plans, OurPact is among the most affordable parental control apps. It delivers excellent value for families prioritizing healthy digital routines and flexible management.
FamilyTime stands out for its highly customizable features that adapt to diverse parental needs. From app usage limits to detailed location history tracking, the app provides flexible tools that balance safety and independence for children. Its SOS alert function ensures instant help in emergencies, making it a reliable option for proactive parents.
Key Features
FamilyTime offers real-time geofencing, location check-ins, and app blocking with adjustable limits. Parents can tailor rules per child, ensuring custom routines that suit each family member’s lifestyle. While it doesn’t include advanced social media monitoring, the app excels in customization and reporting.
Compatibility & Ease of Use
The app supports iOS and Android devices and is frequently updated for the latest OS versions. Its intuitive dashboard makes monitoring simple, while detailed activity reports provide parents with actionable insights. Even for less tech-savvy users, FamilyTime is easy to set up and navigate.
Pricing
FamilyTime offers tiered subscription plans designed for families of different sizes. While not the cheapest parental control app, its customization options and unique features like the SOS button deliver strong value for parents who want tailored control.
Mobicip shines for families managing multiple devices, with plans that cover up to 20 devices under one subscription. Its wide compatibility with iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Chromebooks ensures comprehensive coverage for households of all sizes. This flexibility makes it particularly valuable for larger families with diverse device needs.
Content Filtering & Screen Time
Mobicip’s robust content filtering tools block harmful websites while allowing access to educational and approved resources. During testing, filters worked consistently across platforms, providing a seamless experience. Parents can also set daily limits or scheduled device-free periods, encouraging healthier screen habits.
Unique Features
A standout feature is the YouTube control tool, letting parents review their child’s video activity for safe browsing. The family locator function tracks real-time locations, providing both digital safety and physical security. Both features proved accurate and reliable during testing.
Ease of Use & Reliability
Mobicip’s intuitive dashboard makes managing restrictions and reviewing reports simple. Frequent updates keep the app compatible with new devices and OS versions, ensuring long-term reliability. Even for busy parents, setup and navigation are straightforward.
Pricing
Competitively priced, Mobicip delivers excellent value for families seeking multi-device protection. With its balance of robust filtering, location tracking, and screen time control, it’s a top-tier solution for households needing comprehensive coverage.
✅ Pros
Covers up to 20 devices per plan
Compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, macOS & Chromebooks
MMGuardian is designed specifically for parents of teenagers, addressing the unique challenges of guiding older children. Its text message and call monitoring features let parents review conversations for warning signs such as bullying, risky behavior, or inappropriate communication. The keyword alert system is a standout, flagging terms related to drugs, self-harm, or cyberbullying, enabling timely intervention before problems escalate.
Focused Oversight for Teens
MMGuardian provides detailed app usage reports, helping parents see how teens spend their time online. This is particularly useful for spotting distractions or overuse, guiding healthier digital habits. While it doesn’t offer the deep social media tracking of some competitors, its focus on teen-specific risks makes it especially effective.
Ease of Use & Compatibility
The app supports both iOS and Android, though advanced features like message monitoring may require extra permissions on certain platforms. Despite this, the intuitive dashboard makes navigation simple, even for parents with limited technical skills. During testing, I found its affordable pricing to be another strength, offering excellent value without compromising essential safeguards.
Pricing & Value
MMGuardian balances cost and functionality, making it a budget-friendly option for families. It provides targeted tools for teen monitoring without being overly intrusive, respecting privacy while still keeping parents informed.
✅ Pros
Keyword alerts for drugs, self-harm & cyberbullying
In today’s digital-first world, keeping children safe online is a top priority for many families. Parental control apps are powerful tools, but with so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. To simplify the process, consider three key factors: device compatibility, control features, and ease of use.
1. Device Compatibility
Not all apps support every device or operating system. Check compatibility first—whether your child uses an iPhone, Android, tablet, or computer. Advanced apps like mSpy or FlexiSPY work on most devices but may require jailbreaking or rooting. For parents who want a smoother setup, eyeZy and Qustodio are better choices, offering broad support without technical hurdles.
2. Control Features
Every family has unique needs. Some require basic content filtering, while others need advanced tools such as:
Location tracking
Social media monitoring
Keyword alerts or keystroke logging
For full oversight, mSpy excels with detailed tracking. If you prefer less invasive solutions, Bark and Net Nanny focus on content filtering and sending alerts about harmful activities.
3. Ease of Use
Apps vary widely in usability. Feature-heavy platforms like FlexiSPY may intimidate beginners with complex setup steps. By contrast, eyeZy and OurPact are known for their user-friendly dashboards and quick onboarding, making them accessible for parents with limited technical knowledge.
Finding the Right Balance
The best parental control app depends on your family’s priorities. Ask yourself: Do you need comprehensive surveillance, or are you looking for a balanced, easy-to-use solution? Consider your child’s age, your comfort with technology, and your goals for digital safety. With these factors in mind, you’ll be better prepared to choose the app that fits your family best.
Parental Control App FAQ
+– What is a parental control app?
A parental control app helps parents monitor and manage children’s online activity by offering features like web filtering, screen time limits, social media monitoring, and GPS tracking.
+– Are parental control apps legal?
Yes, they are legal when used by parents or guardians to protect children under 18. Always follow local privacy laws and use them responsibly.
+– What features do these apps usually offer?
Common features include web content filtering, app usage control, location tracking, call & text monitoring, social media oversight, and screen time management.
+– Do they require jailbreaking or rooting?
Advanced apps like mSpy and FlexiSPY may require jailbreaking (iOS) or rooting (Android) for features like keylogging or social media monitoring. Apps like Qustodio and Bark work without it.
+– Can I monitor multiple children with one app?
Yes, most parental control apps let you monitor multiple devices under one subscription. The number depends on the plan.
+– Are they compatible with all devices?
Not always. Compatibility depends on the operating system (iOS, Android, Windows, macOS) and device model. Always check app specifications before subscribing.
+– How do I install a parental control app?
Usually you download the app, create an account, link your child’s device, and configure settings. Many apps provide step-by-step guides.
+– Do these apps work in stealth mode?
Some, like FlexiSPY or mSpy, can run hidden in stealth mode. However, consider ethical and legal guidelines before enabling it.
+– Can I monitor social media?
Yes, many apps provide monitoring for Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and more. The level of access varies per app.
+– How much do these apps cost?
Basic plans start around $5–$10/month, while advanced apps with extensive features can cost $30–$70/month. Annual subscriptions are usually cheaper.
+– Are free parental control apps effective?
Free options like Google Family Link or Microsoft Family Safety cover basics, but premium apps provide advanced tools like social media control and detailed reports.
+– How do I discuss control apps with my child?
Be honest. Explain the purpose is safety, not spying. Involve them in setting rules and boundaries to build trust.
+– Do they drain battery life?
Some features like GPS tracking can use extra battery, but most modern apps are optimized to minimize the impact.
+– Are there alternatives to apps?
Yes, built-in device controls (iOS, Android, gaming consoles) and router-based controls exist, but lack the depth of dedicated apps.
+– What’s the best parental control app?
It depends: mSpy or FlexiSPY for advanced users, Qustodio or eyeZy for beginners, and Bark for social media monitoring.
Marcus is a cybersecurity analyst with a focus on VPN and proxy services. As the founder and driving force behind a prominent VPN and proxy website, Private Proxy Guide, Marcus has emerged as a trusted authority in the digital realm. With a passion for staying ahead of evolving cyber threats, he has played a pivotal role in educating and empowering individuals and businesses to safeguard their online presence.
