Key Takeaways

  • Parents are increasingly concerned about smartphone safety for children.
  • Companies are developing kid-friendly devices with restricted features.
  • Options range from fully-featured phones to minimalist calling devices.
  • Parental controls and monitoring are key components of these devices.

Growing Concerns Among Parents

As smartphone usage among children rises, parents are voicing concerns about the potential risks associated with unrestricted access. In response, a variety of companies are introducing devices specifically designed for younger users.

Features of Kid-Friendly Phones

Modern phones aimed at kids often include touchscreens and cameras, similar to standard smartphones. However, these devices come with modified software that limits access to web browsers, social media, and app stores, reducing distractions and potential dangers.

Many of these phones can be managed through companion apps, allowing parents to approve contacts, track locations, set screen time limits, and receive alerts about issues like cyberbullying or inappropriate content.

Types of Devices Available

In addition to modified smartphones, some companies are offering more basic devices focused solely on calling and texting. There are also home phones designed for children, such as Tin Can and the newly launched Pinwheel Home.

The Bark Phone

The Bark Phone stands out as one of the most recognized options in the kid-specific smartphone market. Built on Samsung Galaxy hardware and equipped with Bark’s monitoring software, it restricts communication to approved contacts only. Bark continuously scans messages and media for signs of potential issues, alerting parents as necessary. The phone also features GPS tracking and screen-time management, with a price of $240 plus a monthly plan starting at $29.

Gabb

Gabb is another prominent name in this space, focusing on eliminating online risks rather than monitoring content. Its devices do not support social media or web browsing, offering only calling, texting, and a selection of preloaded apps. Gabb’s pricing starts at $159.99, with service plans beginning at $24.99 per month.

Pinwheel

Pinwheel allows parents to approve apps, manage contacts, and set screen time. It features customizable modes for different times of day, such as limiting functionality during school hours. Pinwheel phones start at $119, with a subscription for the Caregiver Portal at $14.99 per month.

Teracube Thrive

Teracube offers the Thrive model, which runs a customized version of Android. Parents can control app downloads and set various limits. This device is more suited for older children, priced at $99 with plans starting at $35 monthly.

Ooma MyPhone

Ooma MyPhone is a home phone designed for kids, allowing calls only between approved contacts. It features scheduled Quiet Hours and emergency alerts, with a price of $99.99 and service starting at $7.99 per month.

Tin Can

Tin Can resembles a traditional landline but connects via Wi-Fi. It allows calls only to approved contacts, preventing unwanted communications. The device is priced at $100, with a free plan for calls between Tin Can users and a $9.99 monthly plan for calls to approved contacts.