How to set up Xbox Family Settings: chat, multiplayer, spending and screen time
Create a Microsoft family group, lock down Xbox multiplayer and chat, set PEGI filters, Ask to buy and screen time.
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Verified: Last checked on 5 October 2026 against Xbox Family hub and Microsoft Family Safety help. Covers Xbox Series X\|S and Xbox One with the Family Settings app or account.microsoft.com/family. Checked against Microsoft's written instructions, not a console.
⏱ Time: 20–30 minutes | 🔧 Difficulty: Medium
What you'll need
- Adult Microsoft account
- Child Microsoft account
- Xbox Family Settings app and/or account.microsoft.com/family
- Xbox console online
Step-by-step
- Create the family. In the app or at account.microsoft.com/family, add/create the child account with their real date of birth.
[Screenshot: Add family member] - Sign them into the Xbox with that child account so devices show as connected.
- Screen time. Set daily/weekly schedules and optional per-game limits.
- Content and spending. Set PEGI age filters and Ask to buy; keep account balances low.
- Privacy. Limit multiplayer, cross-network play, clubs, broadcasting and who can chat or invite.
[Screenshot: multiplayer and communication privacy] - Test it. Try multiplayer, messaging a stranger, and a store purchase.
⚠️ Watch out
- Playing on someone else's adult account bypasses your controls.
- In-game chat in Minecraft/Roblox/Fortnite needs those platforms' settings too.
- Cross-network play can widen who they meet.
- Report concerns via Xbox and CEOP if needed.
Related guides
- PlayStation 5 Family Management [link to add]
- Nintendo Switch parental controls [link to add]
- Minecraft family multiplayer [link to add]
- Fortnite parental controls [link to add]
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Spotted a change? If a menu looks different, tell us console and whether you used the app or website.
Sources (checked 5 Oct 2026): Xbox UK Family hub · Family Settings app · App and game limits