SINGAPORE - Child-friendly app YouTube Kids was launched in Singapore on Saturday (Nov 12), providing children aged two to eight years old with a more family-friendly version of popular video-sharing platform YouTube.

The app is designed with larger images and bold icons, with a voice search that allows children who cannot spell or type to search for videos.

Children can browse channels and playlists in four categories: Shows, Music, Learning and Explore. There is also a Recommended section.

The app has parental controls which allow parents to restrict the videos their children can watch by turning off the search option, as well as by setting their own passcode. They can also limit their children's screen time with a built-in timer.

In addition, the app does not have the usual "Like" option, comment section or number of views.

"YouTube Kids gives parents more control to provide a safer and more customised experience for their families to explore their endless curiosities, learn about new topics and be entertained," said Mr Don Anderson, head of Kids and Learning Partnership at YouTube Asia Pacific, at the app's launch at Google Asia Pacific's new office at Mapletree Business City.

"It is a safe platform for parents and kids to come together to create new content, to share content, share experiences," said Minister for Communications and Information Yaacob Ibrahim, who attended the launch.

The app was first launched in the United States in February 2015, and has since expanded to 24 other countries, including Singapore. It has more than 10 billion views in a year.

It is available for free on Google Play and the App Store for smartphone or tablet.