Yes, you can use Circle for free, but this only applies to a specific set of basic features. Access to more advanced features requires a paid subscription.
Circle offers a tiered approach to its functionalities, allowing users to choose between a free experience with core capabilities or a premium subscription for comprehensive parental control and internet management.
Free Basic Features
Without any subscription, Circle provides essential tools that are always free to use. These fundamental features are designed to help you manage internet content and understand online activity.
The basic features available at no cost include:
- Filters: Control what content can be accessed on devices connected to your network. This helps in blocking inappropriate websites and categories.
- Usage: Monitor and view how much time is spent online across different devices and applications. This gives insight into digital habits.
- History: Review a log of websites visited and apps used, providing a detailed overview of online activity.
These free functionalities offer a solid foundation for managing a family's internet use, focusing on content filtering and visibility into online behavior.
Premium Features and Subscription
For those seeking more extensive control and advanced features, Circle offers a premium subscription. This subscription unlocks a suite of powerful tools designed for granular management of screen time and online habits.
Premium features, which are accessible with a Circle subscription, include:
- Time Limits: Set specific daily time limits for internet use on individual devices or for particular apps.
- Bedtime: Schedule a specific time when internet access turns off for selected devices, ensuring kids get enough sleep.
- Focus Time: Create dedicated blocks of time for homework or other activities where internet access is limited or blocked, except for approved sites.
- Pause the Internet®: Instantly pause internet access for all or specific devices, a useful tool for getting attention or encouraging offline activities.
- Location: Track the real-time location of family members' devices.
- Rewards: Offer bonus screen time or other privileges as a reward for good behavior or completing chores.
A Circle subscription, which grants access to all these premium features, is typically priced at $9.99 USD per month or $99.99 USD annually.
Summary of Circle Features and Cost
To clarify the offerings, here's a quick overview of which features are free and which require a subscription:
| Feature Type | Specific Features | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic (Always Free) | Filters, Usage, History | Free |
| Premium (Subscription Required) | Time Limits, Bedtime, Focus Time, Pause the Internet®, Location, Rewards | $9.99 USD/month or $99.99 USD/year |
In summary, while the core functions of filtering content and viewing internet activity are free, the more advanced capabilities for managing screen time, setting boundaries, and leveraging additional controls come with a subscription fee.
