Smartphone shipments fell back to 2013 levels earlier this year, experts say, the largest drop ever, and a trend here in the US could be to blame.
A growing number of consumers are opting for dumbphones (e.g., a phone similar to a classic Nokia or a clamshell phone), a trend that may give parents some ideas when selecting their children’s first phone.
“The child’s opinion is probably much larger than the parent’s,” said Golisano Children’s Hospital pediatrician Dr. Elizabeth Murry. She stated that smartphones are providing young people with access to the world, which is something to consider.
“Becoming a good digital citizen is a skill, which is why we need to teach children at a young age how to enter this world.”A parent wants their child to have a phone so they can communicate — but that’s very different from having access to Snapchat and other things like that,” she explained.
With one caveat, Greek parent Tom believes that 14 is an appropriate age for his children to receive a smartphone.
“As long as I have control over parental guidance and all security functions,” he said.
Tanya in Greece suggested that a clamshell phone might be the ticket for her infant daughter. “Definitely. “I believe that would be far superior,” she stated.
Jenna in Irondequoit said she is discussing options with her 9-year-old son. Her daughter, on the other hand, has another contact.
“She wears a gizmo watch.”
