Gabb Third-Party App FAQs

General Questions

What is App Management on Gabb phones?

App Management is a kid-safe app marketplace featuring carefully curated third-party apps that align with Gabb’s mission of protecting kids while allowing them to stay connected.

How does Gabb decide which apps are available?

Apps go through a strict approval process based on content, functionality, & safety. Gabb reviews each app for privacy concerns, in-app purchases, chat features, & overall suitability for kids.

Can I request an app to be added?

Yes! You can submit app requests through your Gabb account. While not all apps will be approved, we review every request. We’ll notify you if your app request is approved. 

How often are new apps added?

Gabb regularly evaluates & adds new apps based on user demand, safety standards, & technical feasibility. 

I bought my kid a Gabb Phone 4. I only have access to give them a few apps. Why?

The Gabb Phone 4 only allows access to a limited number of apps. Our Gabb Phone 4 Pro on the Advanced Plan has access to our curated library of third-party apps. If you’d like full access to the Gabb App Store, you’ll need a Gabb Phone 4 Pro on the Advanced plan.

I don’t have access to third-party apps on my Gabb Phone 4 Pro. Why?

Third-party apps are only available on the Advanced Plan. Our Standard and Starter Plans do not include third-party apps.

App Approval & Requests

Why was my requested app denied?

Apps may be denied for various reasons, including:

  • Incompatible with Gabb devices
  • Inappropriate content or themes
  • Excessive ads that can’t be disabled
  • Open communication features (social media, chat, etc.)
Why aren’t some requested apps available even if they meet Gabb’s standards?

While we strive to offer a wide variety of kid-friendly apps, some third-party apps may not be compatible with Gabb devices. This could be due to technical limitations, such as requiring an internet browser or specific software that our devices don’t support.

Our priority is to ensure a seamless and secure experience, so we only include apps that function properly within Gabb’s ecosystem.

Can I appeal an app denial?

Currently, app denial decisions are final. However, Gabb may reconsider apps if significant changes are made by the app developer to meet safety criteria.

If an app you need makes significant changes, please submit an additional request for the app.

I don’t see an app we need. How do I request it?

You can request an app through the MyGabb app under App Management. Every request is reviewed, but only apps that are compatible with our devices and meet our strict safety & privacy guidelines are approved.

I submitted an app request. How will I know if it gets approved?

We receive thousands of app requests and we work hard to review them quickly. If your request meets our guidelines, it will be considered. If we add the app to the Gabb App Store, we’ll send you a confirmation email.

I’ve requested an app but haven’t heard anything.

App requests are reviewed regularly, but approval depends on multiple factors, including safety, functionality, & compatibility with Gabb devices. While we can’t guarantee all requests will be approved, we appreciate your input & use it to guide future updates.

App Categories & Features

What are the different tiers of apps?

Gabb categorizes third-party apps into three tiers:

  • Tier 1: Gabb-approved apps
  • Tier 2: Low-risk third-party apps
  • Tier 3: Higher-risk third-party apps that require additional parental guidance
Are all third-party apps under App Management free?

Most apps are free, but some may have a one-time purchase or subscription fee. Gabb ensures that any paid apps meet strict safety standards.

Can parents control which apps their child downloads?

Yes! You have full control over app installations through your Gabb account.

Why doesn’t Gabb have social media apps?

Gabb is committed to creating a distraction-free digital experience for kids and teens. Social media platforms often come with risks such as exposure to inappropriate content, online predators, & excessive screen time.

To protect young users & promote healthy digital habits, we focus on providing apps that support learning, creativity, and communication—without the concerns associated with social media.

Why doesn’t Gabb have more games?

At Gabb, our priority is to provide a balanced digital experience for kids & teens. While we offer a selection of fun & engaging games, we focus on apps that encourage creativity, learning, & healthy habits.

Our goal is to help kids stay active and connected without the risks of excessive screen time or inappropriate content often found in many gaming apps.

Third-Party App Issues on Gabb Phone

I can’t log in to the Taco Bell app.

You can still order on the app, but you won’t be able to log in. Logging in requires access to your email & a web browser, which are restricted on Gabb devices.

I can’t log in to Fitbit.

The Fitbit sign-in only works for legacy Fitbit customers with accounts created before 2021. If you need to log in with Google, it won’t work on Gabb devices due to restricted web access.

I was able to use an app, but now it requires an internet browser to log in. Why?

App developers frequently update their apps, & sometimes these updates introduce new requirements—such as needing an internet browser to log in. Since Gabb devices don’t support traditional web browsing for safety reasons, this can make certain apps no longer functional. Unfortunately, we don’t have control over these changes, but we continually review app updates to ensure the best experience for our users.

I am unable to complete payment through a third-party app for a subscription.

You will need to complete payment for any subscription using a web browser, as certain in-app purchases may not work on Gabb devices.

Safety & Content Concerns on Gabb Devices

I have concerns that an app isn’t safe. My child was able to access the internet through the app.

Gabb carefully reviews all apps before approval, but some apps may contain links, user-generated content, or features that we can’t fully control. The Gabb App Guide is designed to educate parents on what each app entails and any potential risks. While we review each app for safety, the final decision is up to you as the parent to determine if an app is appropriate for your child. 

If you come across a potential issue, please report it to Gabb Support. We take all feedback seriously & we’ll investigate.

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