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Data-lite mode

Data-lite mode is a feature that allows underage users to access a limited version of your game or application while waiting for parental consent. This provides a better user experience by allowing players to start using your product immediately, rather than blocking them completely until consent is granted.

What's data-lite mode?​

Data-lite mode is a restricted experience that:

  • Allows players to access basic features of your game
  • Prevents data collection that requires parental consent
  • Restricts access to features that require consent
  • Provides a way for players to continue using your product while waiting for parental consent

When to use data-lite mode​

Data-lite mode is appropriate when:

  • A player's age requires Verifiable Parental Consent
  • You want to provide a positive user experience while waiting for consent
  • You can provide a meaningful experience without collecting personal data
  • You can restrict access to features that require consent

Implementing data-lite mode​

When a player's age requires parental consent, you have several options:

Option 1: Block access completely​

Block the player from continuing in the game until a parent grants consent. This is the most restrictive approach and ensures no data is collected until consent is obtained.

Option 2: Allow limited access​

Important

Allow the player to continue for a certain amount of time before being denied access while trusted adult consent is requested. In this case, while waiting for trusted adult consent, the game is responsible to:

  • Avoid collecting data about the player
  • Restrict access to features that require consent
  • Not enable permissions that require guardian approval
  • Provide a clear indication that full access requires parental consent

Best practices​

When implementing data-lite mode:

  1. Clear communication: Inform players that they're in a limited mode and why
  2. Feature restrictions: Clearly disable or hide features that require consent
  3. No data collection: Ensure you're not collecting personal data that requires consent
  4. Consent prompts: Make it easy for players to request consent from their parents
  5. Time limits: Consider implementing time limits for data-lite mode to encourage consent completion

Example implementation​

When a challenge is created, you can:

  1. Show the consent challenge to the player
  2. Allow them to continue in a limited mode
  3. Restrict access to features that require consent
  4. Monitor for consent completion via webhooks
  5. Grant full access once consent is obtained