HMD Global is developing safe tech devices for children, addressing concerns about smartphone addiction.
HMD Global and Xplora Technologies have announced a strategic partnership to address parents' concerns about the impact of technology on their children.
According to a study conducted by HMD and Perspectus Global, more than 10,000 parents from five countries –
the UK, US, India, Germany and Australia – expressed their concerns.
The results showed that 60% of parents are concerned about their children’s excessive smartphone use, 50% regret giving their children a
smartphone when they were younger, and 70% said that growing up without a smartphone helped them interact more with their family.
Illustration photo.
Illustration photo.
Earlier this year, HMD launched “The Better Phone Project” to address these issues.
Now, in partnership with Xplora, a Norwegian company that specializes in smartwatches for kids,
HMD is working on a suite of solutions including child-friendly feature phones and smartwatches to encourage responsible use of technology.
Xplora will design the devices, while HMD will handle distribution, with the aim of providing smartphone alternatives that limit distraction and prioritize child safety.
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The “anti-addiction” devices are expected to launch in March 2025 at the MWC global mobile show in Barcelona,
Spain, with features such as parental controls, smart home connectivity and eSIM functionality.
These devices are designed to promote healthy digital habits, allowing parents to effectively manage screen time and social media.
Smartphones that are not addictive to use will soon appear.
Smartphones that are not addictive to use will soon appear.
Jean-Francois Baril, CEO of HMD, expressed his excitement to develop technology that puts “human” values at its core.
Sten Kirkbak, CEO of Xplora, said the partnership will help Xplora expand into the youth technology market, while supporting digital health for young users.
The goal of this collaboration is to create technology tools that encourage a balanced
relationship with technology, providing a safe and distraction-free experience for young users.
“We are delighted to partner with Xplora to deliver technology solutions tailored to the unique needs of children and young people.
At HMD, putting people at the core of everything we do is part of our DNA,” said Baril.
