The groups are charging the new app's videos intermix
entertainment and commercial content in a way that is deceptive -- and would
not be permitted on broadcast or cable television. They are asking the Federal
Trade Commission to investigate whether YouTube Kids violates federal law.
The YouTube Kids app was released in late February on the
iTunes and Android stores. It's designed to let kids watch "family friendly"
videos on smartphones and tablets.
Google has claimed that it only shows kid-appropriate ads that
undergo a rigorous screening process. Many types of ads are banned on the app,
including ads for food, beverages, video games, and beauty and fitness
products.
But the consumer groups say many of the app's videos violate
Google's own stated policies.
"Many of the video segments endorsing toys, candy and other
products that appear to be 'user-generated' have undisclosed relationships with
product manufacturers in violation of the FTC's guidelines concerning the use
of endorsements and testimonials in advertising," said the letter than the
groups sent to the FTC on Tuesday.
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