New kids-only iPhone launches that's perfect for worried parents – it has NO social media & all internet apps blocked
GOOD CALL New kids-only iPhone launches that's perfect for worried parents – it has NO social media & all internet apps blocked
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
A SPECIAL iPhone designed to stop kids from downloading social media apps and accessing an internet browser has been launched in the UK.
Sage Mobile has modified the popular Apple device to tightly restrict the apps and services a child can access for the parents' peace of mind.
1
Only vetted apps can be downloaded on the iPhone using Sage Mobile software
Credit: Techless
Only pre-vetted apps deemed safe for children can be used on the handset.
And "sketchy workarounds" such as VPNs and backdoors are blocked too, the company claims.
By default, the service has no social media, internet browser, or app store access.
The Sage software is part of a subscription bundle, which provides buyers with an iPhone 16e or iPhone 16 Pro with the added protections.
"We didn't want to build a 'parental control' phone,' explained Chris Kaspar, CEO of Techless, the company behind Sage Mobile.
"We wanted to build a device that's safe by design, not safe by surveillance.
"With Sage, we've created a smartphone that helps people reconnect with real life, not just reduce screen time."
But it doesn't come cheap, starting from £119 a month.
And not everyone is convinced it's a good idea.
Professor Sonia Livingstone, a Social Psychologist at LSE says the price tag is "beyond the means of most parents, so if it does bring benefits, they can only be at the cost of increased social inequalities".
Sun's tech editor shows NEW 4mm thin folding Samsung – & teases 'flip iPhone' too
"More importantly, it is hard to see how this phone will solve the problem," she told ITV News.
"Research shows that young people gain many benefits from both social media and web browsing, though of course efforts to prevent the risks are important.
"Research shows that only a minority of young people have problematic internet use, and that many are learning the skills to become resilient and able to manage their own phone use in the future, which is also important."
Techless first launched a version for the US market called Wisephone.
The company claims it has sold out four times consecutively, "demonstrating the rising global demand for screen-safe smartphone solutions".
It comes just days before new online safety law comes into effect forcing websites to make sweeping changes so adult and inappropriate content isn't easily accessible to children.
A number of porn sites such as PornHub, as well as social platforms like Reddit, have started adding new stricter age checks.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Sun
2 hours ago
- The Sun
Amazon slashes ‘ultra-slim' Magsafe power bank from £160 to £20 – it snaps to your iPhone and is approved for flights
Looking for life support for your iPhone this summer? Amazon has slashed the cost of a Magsafe phone charger, and it's now a major hit with shoppers on the website. 1 TRKOY Magsafe Power Bank, £19.99 (was £159.99) The TRKOY Magsafe Power Bank is now £140 cheaper than it was. We've seen Amazon offer a run of similar deals in the past couple of months, with other devices like the OHOVIV portable charger and CTIAI charger getting snapped up by shoppers. By contrast, though, this charger is designed expressly for your iPhone. With the summer holidays in full swing, this svelte little gizmo could be a lifesaver for keeping your Apple devices powered on flights, by the beach, or while you're out and about exploring new destinations. Now a walloping 88% cheaper, this portable gadget has become one of Amazon's top-selling power banks. Its TSA-approved design makes it particularly ideal for travellers: you'll be able to carry it onto planes without any issues at security. The TRKOY power bank is designed to snap securely onto your iPhone with a strong magnetic grip. It's compatible with a wide range of iPhone models (generations 12-16), as well as MagSafe-compatible cases. Weighing just 120g and measuring only 11.8mm thick, the device is ultra-lightweight, portable - and nope, it won't block your camera. Better yet, it's got dual charging options. These allow for both wireless charging for MagSafe-compatible iPhones and high-speed wired charging via USB-C. The 5000mAh battery capacity is ideal for a day out - the manufacturers state this can fully charge an iPhone 16 up to 1.3 times. Safety features include an intelligent cooling chip and built-in safeguards against overcharging, overheating, and short-circuiting. The device has earned rave reviews on Amazon, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 from over 400 customers. Many buyers have praised its slim design, reliability, and convenience. "Compact. Reliable. Surprisingly powerful," writes one shopper. "It's easily one of the most convenient gadgets I own. "It's ultra-slim and pocket-friendly, perfect for travel or just daily use without the bulk. The MagSafe-style wireless charging feature is a game-changer." "An absolute must-have!" says another customer. "It snaps onto my iPhone like magic with a solid magnetic hold that doesn't budge, even when I'm walking or using the phone." Another buyer writes: "The wireless charging works flawlessly with my phone... The battery level indicator is a nice touch. "Charging speed is solid, and I've been able to get a full charge for my phone without issues." best power banks UK.
Geeky Gadgets
9 hours ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 26: Your Guide to a Minimalist iPhone Setup
A minimalist iPhone setup can transform the way you interact with your device, allowing you to reduce distractions and enhance productivity. With the release of iOS 26, Apple introduces a range of features designed to simplify your digital experience and encourage a healthier relationship with technology. By effectively managing screen time, customizing notifications, and decluttering your interface, you can create a more focused and efficient daily routine. The video below from Andrew Ethan Zeng shows us how we can optimize our iPhone to align with our priorities and foster a distraction-free lifestyle. Take Control with Screen Time Management The 'Screen Time' feature in iOS 26 is a robust tool that provides detailed insights into your app usage, helping you monitor and manage your interaction with your device. You can set daily limits for specific apps, such as social media or games, to prevent excessive usage. For example, limiting Instagram to 30 minutes per day can help you avoid hours of unproductive scrolling. Additionally, the 'Downtime' feature allows you to block access to non-essential apps during specific hours, such as during work or bedtime. This ensures that your device supports your schedule rather than disrupting it. By using these tools, you can cultivate a more balanced and intentional relationship with your iPhone, prioritizing activities that matter most. Reduce Interruptions with Notification Customization Notifications are one of the most common sources of distraction, but iOS 26 offers advanced customization options to help you manage them effectively. You can silence unknown callers and filter messages from unknown senders, significantly reducing unnecessary interruptions. Turning off non-essential notifications and hiding notification badges can also create a cleaner, less overwhelming interface. Focus Modes, such as Work, Personal, or Sleep, allow you to tailor your notifications based on your current activity or time of day. For example: During work hours, you can limit notifications to essential emails and calendar alerts to maintain productivity. In Sleep Mode, you can block all but emergency calls to ensure uninterrupted rest. These features empower you to stay in control of your attention and time, making sure that your device complements your goals rather than detracting from them. Simplify Your Interface for Better Usability A clutter-free interface not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your device but also reduces cognitive load, making it easier to navigate. Begin by allowing the 'Reduce Motion' setting to minimize animations, creating a smoother and faster user experience. Next, declutter your home screen by removing unnecessary apps and organizing the essentials into folders. Widgets can further improve usability by providing quick access to important information. Consider adding widgets for: Weather updates to plan your day effectively. Calendar events to stay on top of your schedule. Reminders or to-do lists to keep track of tasks. These small adjustments can make your iPhone feel more organized and purposeful, helping you focus on what truly matters. Explore New iOS 26 Features iOS 26 introduces several innovative features designed to enhance your phone's functionality and efficiency. These updates adapt to your needs while reducing unnecessary distractions: Live Call Screening: Transcribes incoming calls in real time, allowing you to decide whether to answer unknown numbers. Transcribes incoming calls in real time, allowing you to decide whether to answer unknown numbers. Screen Unknown Senders: Filters spam messages, keeping your inbox clean and organized. Filters spam messages, keeping your inbox clean and organized. Adaptive Battery Mode: Optimizes power usage based on your habits, extending battery life and making sure your device is ready when you need it. These features work together to create a smarter, more intuitive user experience, allowing your iPhone to seamlessly integrate into your daily life. Declutter with Purposeful Apps Decluttering your iPhone isn't just about organizing your interface—it's also about removing apps that no longer serve a purpose. Conduct an app audit by deleting those you haven't used in months. This not only frees up storage space but also reduces the mental clutter associated with an overcrowded home screen. For added focus, consider installing apps designed to curb distractions and promote mindfulness. Examples include: One Sec: Encourages you to pause before opening social media apps, helping you reflect on whether the action aligns with your goals. Encourages you to pause before opening social media apps, helping you reflect on whether the action aligns with your goals. Headspace or Calm: Mindfulness apps that support relaxation and focus, allowing you to stay centered throughout the day. These tools can help you create a more intentional and productive phone experience, aligning your device usage with your personal and professional objectives. Optimize Your Home and Lock Screens Your home and lock screens are the first things you see when you pick up your phone, making them critical areas for optimization. Start by removing notification badges and live activities to create a distraction-free environment. Customize lock screens for different Focus Modes, adding widgets that align with your goals, such as fitness trackers, calendar events, or to-do lists. Choosing clean, minimalistic wallpapers can further reduce visual clutter, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your device. A well-organized home and lock screen not only improves usability but also sets the tone for a more focused and intentional day. Foster a Healthier Digital Lifestyle Adopting a minimalist iPhone setup with iOS 26 allows you to take control of your digital habits, fostering a healthier and more intentional relationship with your device. By managing screen time, customizing notifications, and simplifying your interface, you can reduce distractions and focus on what truly matters. Whether you're using Focus Modes to enhance productivity or decluttering your apps to free up mental space, these strategies empower you to use your iPhone as a tool for achieving your goals. Start optimizing your device today and enjoy a more efficient, distraction-free experience that aligns with your priorities. Dive deeper into the Minimalist iPhone setup with other articles and guides we have written below. Source & Image Credit: Andrew Ethan Zeng Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy
Scottish Sun
12 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
New kids-only iPhone launches that's perfect for worried parents – it has NO social media & all internet apps blocked
But not everyone is convinced it'll work - especially due to the cost GOOD CALL New kids-only iPhone launches that's perfect for worried parents – it has NO social media & all internet apps blocked Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A SPECIAL iPhone designed to stop kids from downloading social media apps and accessing an internet browser has been launched in the UK. Sage Mobile has modified the popular Apple device to tightly restrict the apps and services a child can access for the parents' peace of mind. 1 Only vetted apps can be downloaded on the iPhone using Sage Mobile software Credit: Techless Only pre-vetted apps deemed safe for children can be used on the handset. And "sketchy workarounds" such as VPNs and backdoors are blocked too, the company claims. By default, the service has no social media, internet browser, or app store access. The Sage software is part of a subscription bundle, which provides buyers with an iPhone 16e or iPhone 16 Pro with the added protections. "We didn't want to build a 'parental control' phone,' explained Chris Kaspar, CEO of Techless, the company behind Sage Mobile. "We wanted to build a device that's safe by design, not safe by surveillance. "With Sage, we've created a smartphone that helps people reconnect with real life, not just reduce screen time." But it doesn't come cheap, starting from £119 a month. And not everyone is convinced it's a good idea. Professor Sonia Livingstone, a Social Psychologist at LSE says the price tag is "beyond the means of most parents, so if it does bring benefits, they can only be at the cost of increased social inequalities". Sun's tech editor shows NEW 4mm thin folding Samsung – & teases 'flip iPhone' too "More importantly, it is hard to see how this phone will solve the problem," she told ITV News. "Research shows that young people gain many benefits from both social media and web browsing, though of course efforts to prevent the risks are important. "Research shows that only a minority of young people have problematic internet use, and that many are learning the skills to become resilient and able to manage their own phone use in the future, which is also important." Techless first launched a version for the US market called Wisephone. The company claims it has sold out four times consecutively, "demonstrating the rising global demand for screen-safe smartphone solutions". It comes just days before new online safety law comes into effect forcing websites to make sweeping changes so adult and inappropriate content isn't easily accessible to children. A number of porn sites such as PornHub, as well as social platforms like Reddit, have started adding new stricter age checks.
