EE Issues Guidance on Smartphones for Children

Concerns about children's smartphone usage are mounting, with many parents and experts advocating for stricter controls. Similarly, EE, a major UK mobile network provider, recommends that children under 11 should not have smartphones, advocating instead for 'limited capability devices' that do not access the internet or social media. This advice comes amid increasing awareness of the negative effects on children's mental health and behavior. Furthermore, research from the University of Basel reveals that many smart toys, including popular ones like Toniebox and Tamagotchi, collect extensive data on children's behavior, raising significant privacy concerns. These insights underscore the urgent need for balanced digital usage and stricter data protection measures for children's technology.