Companies develop safer phones tailored for kids with parental controls

As parents grow more concerned about the risks of unrestricted smartphone access for children, several companies are creating phones designed specifically for kids, TechCrunch reported.

These kid-friendly phones often include touchscreens, cameras, and communication functions similar to standard smartphones but come with heavily modified software that restricts access to web browsers, social media, and app stores.

Parents can manage these devices through companion apps, allowing them to approve contacts, monitor locations, set screen time limits, and receive alerts about cyberbullying, explicit content, or online predators.

Some companies also offer minimalist devices focused solely on calling and texting, as well as home phones designed for children, such as Tin Can and Pinwheel Home.

One notable product is the Bark Phone, built on Samsung Galaxy hardware and powered by Bark’s monitoring software. It limits communication to approved contacts, scans for concerning content, and provides GPS tracking and screen-time management. Parents can also gradually unlock features as their child matures.