One of the UK’s largest network providers issued the warning to help safeguard children online
EE, one of the UK’s largest network providers, has urged parents against purchasing a smartphone for children under 11 years old. The warning comes amid a growing campaign to limit access to the internet for children to “limited capability devices”, which only allow them to text and call.
In the case of a parent purchasing a smartphone for their child, EE recommends enabling parental control features and restricting access to social media. EE said these steps aim to “safeguard children in the digital world”.
Recent reports suggest excessive smartphone use can have detrimental effects on mental health issues among teenagers and can expose younger children to online harm. The new guidance comes as campaigners and MPs have urged tougher action to be taken on the issue.
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EE said it will also introduce updated in-app controls and has launched a national school campaign aimed at educating young people about responsible digital behaviour. Mat Sears, corporate affairs director for EE, said: “While technology and connectivity have the power to transform lives, we recognise the growing complexity of smartphones can be challenging for parents and caregivers.
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“They need support, which is why we are launching new guidelines on smartphone usage for under 11s, 11 to 13-year-olds, and 13 to 16-year-olds to help them make the best choices for their children through these formative years.”
The guidance says children aged 11 to 13 should have family-sharing capabilities installed on their first phone. This allows parents to monitor screen time, track app usage and set time limits for specific applications.
The House of Commons Education Committee said in May the Government should consider a total ban on phones for under-16s and that tougher action is needed to limit screen time and combat online harm.
But Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said in July he does not support “simply banning” phones for children under 16, adding that the Government needs “to look again” at what content children are accessing online.