Smartphones are ubiquitous in the digital age, but many parents worry about providing their children and teens with the right smartphones.
Fortunately, there are several Smartphone Alternatives for adult users that offer the communication tools they need without the drawbacks of traditional phones/smartphones.
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Best Smartphone Alternatives for Adults
1. Wisephone 2
The Wisephone II is the perfect phone for parents who want to keep their children/adults safe while also making more efficient use of their time. Techless’s Wisephone 2 is one of the best minimalist phones that has no internet browser, streaming, social media, apps, or ads.
It includes calling, texting, a calculator, a clock, notes, music, maps, a camera, and more. The Wisephone II costs $399. You can choose your preferred carrier or use Techless’s carrier service.
2. Light Phone II
Living up on its name, the Light Phone II boasts a minimalist design suitable for all ages, especially children. While lacking social media and search features, it offers calling and texting capabilities, along with a customizable tools menu.
A dedicated dashboard website allows you to easily manage the phone’s features and capabilities. Priced at $299, the Light Phone II is compatible with a variety of carriers, including AT&T. Separate line activation starts at $30 per month.
This lightweight design resembles an e-reader without a backlit screen. The absence of social media or a browser alleviates parental concerns. The Light Phone II has GPS navigation but no GPS tracking.
3. Verizon GizmoWatch 3
Verizon’s GizmoWatch 3 is another kid-friendly smartwatch focused on safety and communication. Like TickTalk, your child can call and send messages to a pre-approved list of contacts, so you don’t have to worry about who they’re interacting with.
Built-in GPS tracking allows you to always know your child’s location, making it easier to stay in touch and feel safe. The GizmoWatch also features fun features like step tracking and voice recording, making it appealing to younger children.
Because it’s a watch, it’s less likely to be lost than a smartphone. It’s durable, easy to use, and a safer choice for children.
4. Pinwheel
Pinwheel is an innovative mobile phone operating system preinstalled on select models from popular manufacturers, designed to promote child autonomy.
Pinwheel offers remote parental access and management features. Like other children’s devices, Pinwheel doesn’t have social media, a browser, or an app store that children can access. Instead, it includes a variety of useful apps that parents can add to the phone through the parent portal.
Pinwheel’s custom mode allows parents to help their children develop healthy digital habits. It also fosters independence by giving parents peace of mind when their children use their smartphones unsupervised.
Why Parents Don’t Choose Pinwheel: While Pinwheel’s quality is superior to competing products, nearly all Pinwheel smartphones cost over $100. This, coupled with the monthly fee, can make Pinwheel smartphones prohibitive for some families.
5. TickTalk 4 Watch
The TickTalk Watch offers voice and video calls, text messaging, location tracking, free music streaming, parental controls, and a camera. TickTalk 4 lets you connect with your family without the internet, games, or social media.
This watch includes features like an activity tracker, 3D notifications, and Do Not Disturb class mode.
6. Bark Phone
The Bark Phone takes safety to the next level. Fully integrated with Bark’s parental controls, it’s a great choice for parents who want more functionality while still maintaining strict supervision.
Bark’s AI-powered tools allow you to monitor your child’s text messages and apps, even detecting potential signs of bullying or inappropriate content.
The Bark Phone lets you control which apps and features are available. For example, you can allow calls and text messages while completely disabling internet and social media apps.
7. Gabb Phone
The Gabb Phone is a great choice for parents who want a traditional phone without the dangers of the internet or social media.
Designed with simplicity and security in mind, the Gabb Phone allows calls and text messages, but completely blocks access to the internet, app stores, and social media platforms.
It includes a basic camera and music player, but doesn’t include apps that parents often worry about, like YouTube or TikTok.
The Gabb Phone is a great choice for parents who want a phone that allows their children to communicate without being exposed to the distractions and dangers of the web.
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