Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Not directly, according to Google’s documented Family Link controls. Family Link offers tools for managing supported apps, screen time, and other account settings, but its help documentation does not describe a switch for disabling mobile hotspot or tethering. A phone’s own Settings may offer relevant controls, while Android’s policy-level restrictions are intended for eligible managed devices—not ordinary Family Link supervision.
What can you use to restrict a child’s hotspot?
| Route | Who it fits | What it can do | Main limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Link and ordinary parental controls | Families supervising a child’s Google account or device | Manage documented features such as app access and screen time | Google’s reviewed Family Link documentation does not include a direct hotspot-off control. |
| Android device-management policy | Organizations and eligible managed devices | Disallow Wi-Fi tethering or, in supported configurations, all tethering | Requires a qualifying ownership and management mode; it is not a normal Family Link setting. |
| Phone Settings or carrier support | Depends on the handset, software, and mobile plan | May provide a device-level or line-level option | Labels and availability vary, and carrier support is not established for an unspecified plan. |
What to check on a family-supervised phone
Look in the child’s phone Settings for labels such as “Hotspot,” “Mobile Hotspot,” or “Hotspot & tethering.” The exact menu path and available controls depend on the manufacturer and Android release; there is no universal sequence established here. If no relevant option appears, check the handset maker’s support information or ask the mobile carrier whether it offers a line-level hotspot restriction.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Family Link can still help manage supported apps and screen time, but blocking an app is not a reliable substitute for disabling the phone’s system tethering control. Google notes that some system apps cannot be blocked, and its documentation does not say that blocking an app turns hotspot off. Google’s Android parental-control setup page also describes an on-device setup route with an Android 17-or-later requirement; check the device’s version and the page’s current instructions before relying on that route.
Recommended Free Tools
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
What Android management policies can do
Android exposes tethering restrictions through device-management policy for specific managed-device contexts. These controls are for administrators managing eligible devices, not a setting a parent can enable through ordinary Family Link supervision.
#1 Best Overall
Teracube Thrive Kids Smart Phone – Safe Android Phone for Kids & Teens with Parental Controls, Block/Limit Social Media and Internet, GPS, Talk & Text, Spam Blocker (Monthly Plan Required)
- BUILT-IN PARENTAL CONTROLS: Parents can remotely manage and monitor their kids cell phone with the Thrive Parent app that works on iOS and Android. Thrive experience offers regular software updates that provide new features and functionality.
- PARENT-APPROVED APPS and TIME LIMITS: All the fun and educational apps. Each app requires parental approval and has time restrictions. Tamper-proof controls ensure kids cannot bypass them.
- SAFE CALLING, SEARCH, BROWSING: Smart phones for kids with built-in safe online search and browsing. Protect your kids from cyberbullies, and inappropriate content. All unknown and spam calls are blocked.
- MONTHLY PLAN REQUIRED: Thrive comes bundled with Teracube Wireless service. Teracube Wireless offers affordable monthly plans for all your talk, text, and data needs. Activation is REQUIRED (Not compatible with other service providers).
- TERACUBE CARE+: Thrive comes with Teracube Care+ protection, which provides express phone replacements for defects and accidents. A protective case and glass screen protector are included with the phone.
DISALLOW_WIFI_TETHERINGrestricts Wi-Fi tethering on company-owned devices running Android 13 and later, according to the Android Management API reference. The reference warns that the Wi-Fi-only restriction may not apply on unsupported Android versions.DISALLOW_ALL_TETHERINGcan restrict all tethering on fully managed devices and on work profiles on company-owned devices, as described in the Android Management API reference.DISALLOW_CONFIG_TETHERINGis a restriction that a device owner or specified profile owner can set. Android’sUserManagerreference says that on Android 9 or later, an active tethering session is automatically turned off when this restriction is set.
These policy names describe administrative controls, not consumer-facing options in Family Link. An organization’s administrator must determine whether the device’s ownership mode and Android version meet the relevant policy requirements.
Why blocking a hotspot app may not work
A hotspot is a system capability, not necessarily a standalone app a parent can remove or block. Family Link’s app controls are designed for supported apps; Google’s documentation does not promise that blocking an app disables tethering. Use an available device or carrier control instead of assuming an app restriction will prevent hotspot use.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 4
Best Value
G-Mee Connect Pro | 64GB Android Phone | Locked T-Mobile Phone with 4G Network | 5.72" Touchscreen Phone | Safer Smartphone with Parental Controls and No Camera
- Long-lasting Robust Performance: We are thrilled to offer the newest safer smartphone from G-mee! The G-mee Connect Pro boasts a long-lasting robust performance with its 2.0 GHz octa-core processor and Android 13 OS. This Android phone offer 4GB RAM and 64GB internal storage and expandable external storage compatible with 128+ GB micro-SD cards. Thanks to the smart phone's 3000 mAh battery, you can enjoy your favorite music for up to 117 hours, or up to 8 hours of HD video playing.
- Smart Connectivity: The G-mee Connect Pro was proudly designed with the newest innovations in smart technology in mind. The device supports NFC for contactless payments using contactless cards or mobile wallets like Google Pay. Its Bluetooth 5.0 is compatible with most Bluetooth devices. The 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi support stable and dependable connectivity. It is T-Mobile locked smartphone so you can use any T-Mobile SIM Reseller/Provider. The phone supports up to two nano SIMs (dual).
- Excellent audio-visual experience: Stream video content in HD+ resolution from your favorite apps (Disney+, Netflix, Amazon Video). With its HD+ 1440*720 display and mono and stereo speakers, the G-mee Connect Pro provides an excellent listening and viewing experience. Introduce and help young device users create their own music playlists, and movie watchlists, learn languages (Duolingo), practice mindfulness, and games. Screen time for children should be limited, according to experts.
- Safer Smartphone: The G-mee Connect Pro has a built-in app locker that lets guardians PIN lock individual apps before providing the device to kids. As a kids phone, it is also designed without cameras to give guardians peace of mind that their children are photos and videos of them online, or video chatting with strangers. For the G-mee App locker set-up instructions, please watch the video on our Amazon storefront.
- Other Features and Included Applets: As part of G-Mee's commitment to introducing safer smart devices for kids, The G-Mee Connect Pro has No Cameras to completely prevent kids from sharing photos and videos of themselves online, or video chatting with strangers. Other included applets are Torch, Fingerprint scanner, alarm clock, calendar, calculator, and FM Radio.
Rank #4
Bark Phone for Kids & Teens - GPS Tracking & Parental Controls - A16
- ACTIVATION REQUIRED: After purchase, users will select a monthly data plan. Starter plan: $29/mo. Wi-Fi only: $39/mo. 4GB: $49/mo. 8GB: $59/mo. UNLIMITED GB: $79/mo.
- STATE-OF-THE-ART MONITORING: Get alerts for potential issues in your child’s texts, emails and 30+ social media platforms and apps. Scan for online predators, sexting, suicidal ideation, bullying, violence, drugs/alcohol, and more.
- APPROVE APPS AND CONTACTS: Manage the apps your child can install as well as who they can text and call.
- TAMPER-PROOF PARENTAL CONTROLS: The rules you set stay in place. Plus, texts can't be deleted without your permission.
- REAL-TIME GPS LOCATION TRACKING: We make location sharing simple with three different ways to keep track of your child — a real-time map, customizable location alerts, and check-ins.
Rank #3
Teracube Thrive Kids Smart Phone – Safe Android Phone for Kids & Teens with Parental Controls, Block/Limit Social Media and Internet, GPS, Talk & Text, Spam Blocker (Monthly Plan Required)
- 📱 All-in-One Smartphone for Kids & Teens Kids phone for 7–16, the Teracube Thrive is the perfect first phone with built-in safety features. Includes 64GB storage, Android OS, and kid-focused design to limit distractions and promote digital wellness.
- 👨👩👧 Tamper-proof Built-In Parental Controls Monitor and manage your kids cell phone remotely from the Thrive Parent App (iOS & Android). Block or limit social media, Set screen time limits, track online activity. No technical skills required - easy setup.
- 📶 Affordable Monthly Plan Required Requires Teracube Wireless activation Kids phone service starting from $1/day. For your talk, text, and data needs. Not compatible with other networks
- 📞 Safe Calling, Texting & Browsing Built-in spam call blocker and restricted contacts list. Thrive blocks unknown callers and enables safe online search and browsing, keeping kids protected from cyberbullying and inappropriate content.
- 📍 GPS Tracking & Real-Time Location Know where your child is at all times with real-time GPS tracking. Great phone for kids school pickups, after-school activities, and everyday peace of mind for parents.
Rank #2
Teracube Thrive Kids Smart Phone – Safe Android Phone for Kids & Teens with Parental Controls, Block/Limit Social Media and Internet, GPS, Talk & Text, Spam Blocker (Monthly Plan Required)
- 📱 All-in-One Smartphone for Kids & Teens: Kids phone for 7–16, the Teracube Thrive is the perfect first phone with built-in safety features. Includes 64GB storage, Android OS, and kid-focused design to limit distractions and promote digital wellness.
- 👨👩👧 Tamper-proof Built-In Parental Controls: Monitor and manage your kids cell phone remotely from the Thrive Parent App (iOS & Android). Block or limit social media, Set screen time limits, track online activity. No technical skills required - easy setup.
- 📶 Affordable Monthly Plan Required: Requires Teracube Wireless activation Kids phone service starting from $1/day. For your talk, text, and data needs. Not compatible with other networks.
- 📞 Safe Calling, Texting & Browsing: Built-in spam call blocker and restricted contacts list. Thrive blocks unknown callers and enables safe online search and browsing, keeping kids protected from cyberbullying and inappropriate content.
- 📦 Includes Phone Case, Screen Protector & Teracube Care+ Comes with a durable case, screen protector, and Teracube Care+, which offers express replacement for accidental damage or defects. Kid-proof from the start!
Check the phone and plan before choosing a route
- Identify the handset and Android version. Menu names and available controls vary by manufacturer and release.
- Check Settings. Search for “Hotspot,” “Mobile Hotspot,” or “Hotspot & tethering,” then review the options shown on that phone.
- Ask the carrier about the specific line. Ask whether it can disable or restrict hotspot use for the child’s plan; availability is carrier- and plan-dependent.
- For an organization-managed phone, contact its administrator. The administrator can verify ownership mode, Android version, and whether an Android tethering policy applies.
Sources
- Google Family Link help
- Google Android parental-control setup
- Android Management API policy reference
- Android Developers: UserManager reference
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteSpecial offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
