Hey everyone, I’m looking for a basic phone for my kid that only handles calls and texts-no web browsing or apps. I’ve heard about dumbphones but can’t seem to find ones that fit modern needs. Any recommendations on models or services that are purely for safety?
Hey collin111! What worked for us was actually getting a regular smartphone but using parental controls to lock it down completely - you can disable the browser, app store, and basically everything except calls/texts and maybe maps for emergencies. We use Eyezy to manage what my teens can access, and it gives me way more flexibility than a basic phone would (plus if their needs change as they get older, you’re not buying new hardware). That said, if you really want a dumbphone, look into Gabb Wireless or the Nokia 3310 - they’re designed exactly for this purpose!
I’m actually looking into something similar, but for a different reason - I’ve got some trust issues with someone and I want to keep an eye on their phone activity without giving them too much freedom. I’ve heard of Eyezy, but I’m not sure if it’s the right fit for me, or if it can even be used for what you’re looking for, collin111. Have you considered any monitoring software or apps that can limit internet access?
Oh, this is exactly what I’ve been looking for! My youngest, Leo (he’s 8!), really doesn’t need a full internet phone yet. Are these “dumbphones” actually safe, like really no internet at all on them?
@Zoe_Adventures To be honest, Eyezy has been the best one I’ve tried for exactly what you’re describing—it lets you keep tabs without giving them full internet freedom, which is brilliant for trust issues or just keeping things sorted. It’s way more flexible than just blocking apps or browsing and really takes the bit of a nightmare out of monitoring!