Parents want safer phones for kids. These companies are answering the call.
A growing market of kid-friendly smartphones is emerging, offering parents tools to restrict web access, monitor locations, and filter content. Companies like Bark and Gabb provide varying levels of software-based protection to address parental concerns about digital safety.
Why it matters
The rise of these devices signals a shift in consumer demand toward 'digital wellness' and safer technology environments for minors.
As parents become increasingly concerned about the potential dangers of unrestricted smartphone access for children, a growing number of companies are developing devices specifically designed for kids.
Today’s kid-friendly phones typically feature touchscreens, cameras, and communication capabilities similar to regular smartphones. However, the software on these devices is heavily modified to remove or restrict access to web browsers, social media, app stores, and other distractions.
Parents can usually manage these devices through a companion app, allowing them to approve contacts, monitor locations, set screen time limits, select available apps, and, in some cases, receive alerts regarding cyberbullying, explicit content, or online predators.
In addition to these modified devices, some companies offer a more minimalist approach, creating devices that focus solely on calling and texting.
There are also home phones designed specifically for children, like Tin Can and the recently launched Pinwheel Home.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in