EE advises parents not to give smartphones to under 11s
EE aims to improve children’s “digital wellbeing” by advising parents not to give smartphones to under-11s.
Due to the prevalence of harmful content on social media and other websites, the mobile network operator believes internet-connected devices can do more harm than good to young children.
EE instead recommends the use of “dumb” phones.
The move comes amid growing fears about the impact of smart devices on the mental health of pre-teens.
Research by Ofcom found that around 25% of children under seven own a smartphone, and parents often feel “helpless” due to the pervasive influence of a smart-tech world.
EE wants to reduce parents’ stress and help them make better choices for their children.
The company’s corporate affairs director, Matt Sears, says basic phones are “more suitable” for under 11s.
These devices are mainly used for calls and texts and don’t feature app stores or web browsers.
Most importantly, they still enable children to stay in contact with their parents when they are out of the house.
EE’s new guidance has been endorsed by the Smartphone Free Childhood campaign group, which believes it’s a positive step for parents to question whether their child needs a smartphone.
The group’s co-founder, Clare Fernyhough, added: ”The way smartphones are, they are adult devices, they are not safe for children.”
The Online Safety Act, which will be passed into law early next year, aims to create a safer digital environment, but critics believe more still needs to be done.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has ruled out a complete ban on smartphones for under-16s.
However, the new government is expected to look at new ways to protect minors online.