Pinwheel Launches Screen-Free Home Phone for Children
Technology company Pinwheel has introduced a new home phone device designed for children. The device offers voice calls without the distractions of smartphones and social media.
Austin, Texas – Pinwheel, known for its children's mobile phones and smartwatches, has launched Pinwheel Home, a screen-free, voice-only home phone. The device aims to provide children with a simple and safe way to call friends and family, free from distractions of apps, texting, or social media.
The product launch comes amid warnings from U.S. health officials regarding the potential harms of excessive screen time for children, citing issues like poor sleep and increased anxiety. Pinwheel Home intends to address these concerns by offering a modern take on the traditional landline, specifically designed for children aged 5 to 12.
The Pinwheel Home features a retro-style handset and connects via Wi-Fi, eliminating the need for a traditional phone line. Parental controls are managed through Pinwheel's Caregiver Portal, allowing parents to approve all contacts and set usage times. This device also serves as an entry point into Pinwheel's ecosystem, potentially leading to the use of Pinwheel Watch or Pinwheel Phone products.
"The goal was to encourage kids to independently make their own plans and chat with each other in a screen-free way, without having to borrow mom or dad's cell phone," said Dane Witbeck, CEO and Founder of Pinwheel. The device includes child-friendly features such as speed dial and voicemail, and requires only a Wi-Fi connection for setup.