Watch CBS News

Facebook, Instagram Introduce Activity Tracker That Helps Users Limit Screen Time

Follow CBSPHILLY Facebook  | Twitter

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Facebook and Instagram both want users to see how much time they're spending on the social media platforms.

The companies are rolling out a new feature tracks screen time.

American Adults Spend Nearly Half Their Day Interacting With Media, Report Finds

"We want the time people spend on Facebook and Instagram to be intentional, positive and inspiring," said the leading social media company.

Facebook Instagram Feature Limit Screen Times2
Credit: CBS3.

The feature also gives users a way to limit notifications and set self-imposed breaks.

For now, the new tools are only available on the Facebook app and Instagram app.

"Our hope is that these tools give people more control over the time they spend on our platforms and also foster conversations between parents and teens about the online habits that are right for them," Facebook added.

New 'Smart Helmet' Technology Senses Where, How Hard Players Take Hits To Head

To access the feature, a user must go to the app's "settings" and then find the "Your Activity" or "Your Time On Facebook" page.

"We have a responsibility to help people understand how much time they spend on our platforms so they can better manage their experience," Facebook concluded.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.