As worries about the risks of unrestricted smartphone access for children rise, more companies are stepping up to create phones specifically tailored for younger users.
Modern kids’ phones often come equipped with touchscreens, cameras, and communication functions akin to standard smartphones. However, the operating systems of these devices are significantly altered to restrict or erase access to web browsers, social networks, app marketplaces, and other engaging distractions.
Typically, these devices can be managed via a complementary app which allows parents to approve contacts, track locations, impose screen time limits, choose accessible apps, and occasionally receive notifications about issues like cyberbullying, inappropriate content, or potential online dangers.
In addition to these modified smartphones, some firms take a simpler route by providing devices primarily for calls and texts.
There are also specialized home phones made for children, including options like Tin Can and the newly released Pinwheel Home.
Here’s an overview of the key players in the child-friendly phone market.
The Bark Phone
The Bark Phone stands out as one of the leading options tailored for children.
Built on Samsung Galaxy technology and integrated with Bark’s monitoring system, it allows communication only with approved contacts. Bark continuously analyzes texts, emails, images, and compatible apps for indicators of cyberbullying, grooming, suicidal thoughts, sexual content, and other issues, subsequently notifying parents.
One notable feature is the ability for parents to gradually enable web access, apps, and other functionalities as their child grows. The device also features GPS tracking and screen time management tools.
The standard model is priced at $240, in addition to a mandatory mobile plan starting at $29 per month. Higher-tier plans offer internet access and unlimited texting.
Gabb
Gabb is another prominent name within the child-friendly phone sector. Unlike Bark, Gabb places less emphasis on content monitoring and focuses more on completely eliminating online risks.
Their phones lack social media, web browsers, or app stores. Instead, children can make calls, send texts, and access a select range of pre-installed applications, including a camera, calendar, and calculator. Gabb also offers a “worry-free” music streaming platform featuring millions of songs.
In addition, parents can track their child’s location and adjust certain device settings, with optional services like “Gabb Guard” available to block spam calls and unsolicited messages.
Prices for Gabb phones start around $159.99, while cellular service begins at approximately $24.99 per month.
Pinwheel
Pinwheel allows parents to approve every application, manage contacts, schedule screen time, create personalized routines, and keep track of location history.
A distinct feature of Pinwheel is its ability to establish various “modes” throughout the day. For instance, it can limit functionalities to just calling and navigation during school hours and unlock extra features afterward.
Pinwheel phones start at approximately $119, with a Caregiver Portal subscription priced at $14.99 per month without cellular service (which can be obtained separately from participating carriers). Recently, the company also released two landline phone models priced at $68 and $79, along with a $160 smartwatch.
Teracube Thrive
Introduced in 2022, Teracube provides a customized version of Android called Thrive OS. This allows parents to approve all app installations, filter internet browsing, set specific app and total screen time limits, track location, and create specific routines for school or bedtime. Due to its more conventional smartphone functionalities, it is often suggested for older kids.
Thrive is currently available for $99, with plans starting at $35 per month.
Ooma MyPhone
Differing from the other devices listed, Ooma MyPhone is not a mobile phone. Instead, it serves as a modern alternative to the traditional household landline designed specifically for children.
This service limits calls to approved contacts via its Trusted Circle feature, offers scheduled Quiet Hours, provides address-specific 911 service, sends alerts when 911 is dialed, and allows parents to review call logs through an online interface. The device does not include apps, internet browsing, texting, or social media capabilities.
The MyPhone costs $99.99, with a service fee of $7.99 per month.
Tin Can
Tin Can is priced at $100 and boasts a distinctive tin can design, which inspired its name, resembling a traditional landline phone.
This device connects through Wi-Fi rather than a conventional phone jack. Only pre-approved contacts can communicate, effectively preventing spam and unauthorized calls. Parents can manage contacts easily using a user-friendly app.
Tin Can offers a complimentary plan for calling other Tin Can users, along with a $9.99 per month plan for calls to all approved contacts.
