UK mobile operator calls for use of basic phones for younger kids amid growing concerns over screen time

EE, one of the UK‘s leading mobile phone operators, has issued new guidance advising parents against providing smartphones to children under 11. Instead, the company recommends that young children use basic “dumb” phones that offer only calling and texting capabilities. This guidance marks a significant stance from a major telecom provider on the issue of children’s screen time.

The advice from EE comes as families approach the new school year, a period when many parents feel pressured to purchase smartphones for their children. Statistics reveal that nine out of ten children own a mobile phone by the time they turn 11. Despite social media platforms typically requiring users to be at least 13 years old, about 60% of children aged 8 to 12 have their own profiles, according to Ofcom. This discrepancy has raised concerns about the exposure of younger children to online content and potential risks.

The recent Ofcom report highlights that three in five secondary school-aged children have experienced online interactions that made them uncomfortable. In response to these findings, MPs on the education committee recommended a total ban on smartphones for under-16s and a statutory prohibition on mobile phone use in schools. They argue that excessive screen time negatively impacts children’s well-being.

EE’s guidance extends to children aged 11 to 13, suggesting that if smartphones are used, parental controls should be activated. This includes tools like Google Family Link or Apple Family Sharing, which help manage and restrict access to social media and inappropriate content. For teenagers aged 13 to 16, EE deems smartphones appropriate but advises using parental controls to oversee their online activities.

Carolyn Bunting, CEO of the child safety organization Internet Matters, supports EE’s stance. She notes that while many parents prefer to make their own decisions about their children’s technology use, they value expert guidance to inform their choices.

As the new school year begins, the debate over smartphone usage for children continues, with EE’s recommendations adding a new dimension to ongoing discussions about screen time and digital safety.

Analysis:

Political: The call from EE to restrict smartphone use among younger children reflects broader political and social debates about digital safety and child welfare. Recent recommendations from MPs for a total ban on smartphones for under-16s and stricter regulations in schools indicate a growing concern among policymakers about the impact of screen time on youth. These developments underscore a political push towards more stringent measures to safeguard children in the digital age.

Social: EE’s guidance highlights shifting societal attitudes towards children’s technology use. As smartphones become increasingly common among younger demographics, there is growing recognition of the potential negative effects on child development and mental health. The recommendation to use basic phones aligns with a broader trend of promoting more balanced and mindful technology use among children. This shift reflects societal concerns about the influence of digital media on young people’s lives and emphasizes the role of parental oversight.

Racial: While EE’s advice is not explicitly related to racial issues, it does intersect with broader discussions about digital equity and access. The recommendations may impact various communities differently, depending on socioeconomic factors and access to technology. Ensuring that all children have access to safe and age-appropriate technology is a concern that transcends racial boundaries, reflecting a universal need for balanced digital exposure.

Gender: The guidance from EE applies equally to all children, regardless of gender. However, it intersects with gender-related discussions around parenting styles and digital safety. Research often highlights different patterns in technology use among boys and girls, and parental controls can help address these variations. Ensuring that both boys and girls have appropriate digital boundaries is essential for promoting a balanced approach to technology use.

Economic: EE’s recommendations have economic implications for the mobile phone market and the broader tech industry. By encouraging the use of basic phones for younger children, EE potentially influences consumer purchasing decisions and market trends. Additionally, the emphasis on parental controls and safe technology use may drive demand for related products and services, impacting the economic landscape of digital safety and child-focused technology solutions.