Mumsnet, the UK’s largest online community of parents, has launched a safety-first smartphone for children called Other Phone in partnership with independent smartphone company Nothing and the SafetyMode app.
Installed on Nothing hardware and powered by SafetyMode software, the Other Phone combines technology with advanced child safety controls, making it a safer smartphone for children.
The Other Phone allows parents to be completely in control of what apps their children can download and use. Remote management lets parents control content and notifications, and track location and screen time from anywhere.
SafetyMode software filters harmful content like bullying, bad language and nudity and flags inappropriate messages, images or pop-ups to parents. It’s the only software available that checks all in-app content, including WhatsApp and all major social media platforms.
The new smartphone also has a minimalist, list-style home screen, which is designed to help prevent addictive use.
“Working with Mumsnet and SafetyMode, we’ve been able to pair advanced safety software with our Nothing hardware to create something that doesn’t just protect kids, but grows with them,” said Ben Wharfe, UK&I general manager at Nothing.
“As children get older, parents can gradually unlock more features instead of having to buy a new device. It’s a practical, long-term solution, and one we’re proud to support.”
Mumsnet research shows parents are increasingly worried about the effects of smartphones and social media on their children’s developing brains, with 88% are concerned about excess screen time and exposure to sexual content, and 86% having worries about the impact on mental health and attention span.
Only one in three (34%) rate existing parental control apps as ‘very effective’, and 77% say keeping their child safe online feels like an impossible task.
“Our software is safe, but also realistic,” said Bertie Aspinall, MD of SafetyMode. “It allows parents the flexibility to decide how and when their kids develop independence.
“SafetyMode is proof technology and AI can be used to bring the best elements of phones to kids and teens, while protecting them from harm.”
