Zift Advisory
Crunchyroll is a streaming app with more than 25,000 videos that allows users to watch their favorite Japanese anime shows with either a free or paid premium account. Available for free download in both iTunes and Google Play, this app is recommended for ages 12 and up and has the option of in-app purchases.
What is Crunchyroll?
With its large database of more than 25,000 popular Japanese episodes, Crunchyroll is an app that provides users with instant streaming of their favorite shows. New episodes are added weekly and the selection of shows available varies by region.
This streaming app can be found in both the App Store or the Google Play Store and is rated for users 12 years of age and older. It offers in-app purchases and does feature ads.
Similar to Tubi TV, it is not obligatory to pay for a membership in order to use the app. Instead, users can simply watch episodes for free and view a certain number of ads in place of compensation.
For individuals that wish to avoid watching ads and would like access to new episodes almost immediately after their release, it is possible to pay $6.99 per month for a premium account.
Once the app is downloaded, users will be asked to create an account by submitting an email address and password. From there, the app’s features can then be accessed.
To search a specific show, click the magnifying glass located in the top right corner. To browse new episodes that have recently been uploaded, click on the “New” button located in the bottom left of the app.
If you interested in just watching anime, your search can be limited to these shows by clicking the “Anime” button at the bottom of the app. If you are interested in watching live-action shows as well, select the “Drama” button.
To adjust any of your profile settings, upgrade your account to premium, or explore other apps that are made by the same developer, select the “Account” button in the bottom right corner.
While the premium account is generally well-loved amongst users, individuals have claimed that the standard account has too many ads.
Is Crunchyroll safe for my kids?
Although iTunes rates Crunchyroll as being acceptable for ages 12 and up, it is best for mature teens with parental guidance. However, because users are not required to submit their birthday when making an account, there currently is no age verification.
Parents should know that while television episodes on the app do not contain overtly explicit material, some of them may contain mature themes, such as sexual content, alcohol and drug references, violence, and profanity.
If you are uncomfortable with your child being exposed to any of these themes, monitor which shows your child watches and create boundaries for what they are allowed to view.
It is important to note that while Crunchyroll allows you to filter your searches by subjects such as genre, there is no option to select shows by age rating, or block searches for shows with certain themes.
If parents wish to prevent their child from making unwanted purchases, they can simply require that they utilize the free account option rather than pay for the premium membership.
One major benefit of using Crunchyroll is that the app does not require large amounts of personal information. To create an account, you need only submit your email and a unique password. Additionally, the app does not have permission to track a user’s location.
Crunchyroll does not allow users to talk to other members, thus preventing the possibility of your child meeting strangers or being approached by online predators while using the app.
App Screens
Recommended for You
9 Screen Time Rules Every Family Needs
Screen Time Strategies
Stop Guessing About Screen Time for Kids – Use This Chart
Screen Time Strategies