Google Cardboard
App Store · Google

Is Google Cardboard Safe for Kids?

Generally Suitable for Families
4+
official age rating
Entertainment
category

Age rating is set by App Store, not by Unstar. This page explains it and adds what parents report in reviews. Not affiliated with Google.

What Google Cardboard's age rating means

Google Cardboard holds a family-friendly 4+ rating on the App Store. It is broadly appropriate, but a low age rating does not remove every risk: check whether it has chat, ads, or in-app purchases below.

What parents and users report about Google Cardboard

Users primarily complain that the app no longer functions properly, especially on newer iOS versions, with frequent reports of flickering or unstable images. Many note that key features have been removed or no longer work, and the app appears abandoned by Google with no updates to fix issues. Others mention compatibility problems with certain phones or VR headsets, and a lack of interactive content or functionality.

Flickering/unstable imagesApp no longer functionalMissing features/content

Summarized from 72 recent 1-3 star reviews. These are user reports, not verified claims.

How to keep your child safe with Google Cardboard

iPhone (Screen Time)

Settings, Screen Time, Content & Privacy Restrictions. Set an age limit for apps, require Ask to Buy for purchases, and restrict or remove Google Cardboard if it is above your child's age.

Android (Family Link)

Use Google Family Link to approve installs, set a Play Store content rating limit, require purchase approval, and block or uninstall Google Cardboard on your child's device.

Google Cardboard for kids: frequently asked questions

Is Google Cardboard safe for kids?

Google Cardboard carries a family-friendly official rating (4+) on the App Store. That makes it broadly suitable, but even family-rated apps can include chat, ads, or in-app purchases, so check the factors below.

What age rating does Google Cardboard have?

The App Store rates Google Cardboard as 4+. This is the store's own content rating, set from the app's features and content, not our opinion. Use it as the starting point for whether it fits your child's age.

Can my child use Google Cardboard safely?

If you decide to allow it, use device parental controls: Screen Time and Content & Privacy Restrictions on iPhone, or Family Link and Play Store parental controls on Android. Turn on purchase approval, set age-appropriate content limits, and keep the account under your family group so you can see activity.

How do I block or remove Google Cardboard from my child's phone?

On iPhone, open Settings, Screen Time, Content & Privacy Restrictions, then restrict or delete the app and block reinstalling it. On Android, open Family Link, select your child, find Google Cardboard and block or uninstall it. You can also set a store age limit so apps above your child's age cannot be installed.

Read the full review breakdown for Google Cardboard
Every 1-3 star review, grouped by complaint, with filters and search.
See all reviews