Most parents are aware of the importance of finding a balance between tech toys and letting kids entertain themselves without technology. KidiBuzz G2 was a product that hoped to strike that balance. It’s more than just a device that has games – KidiBuzz lets kids have a limited smartphone just like mom and dad. But is that a good thing? Check it out in our KidiBuzz G2 review.
What Is the Kidibuzz G2?
Aimed for children aged four to nine years, the Kidibuzz G2 uses WiFi to let kids send messages to contacts their parents have approved. They can add video and images to connect with anyone on their contact list who has a smartphone, as well as any of their little friends who have their own Kidibuzz. Also included in the device are over 40 educational games.
The main concept behind Kidibuzz is to give parents complete control of the smart technology they’re allowing their children to use. In a world where kids see adults and teens constantly connected to their phone, it’s only natural that younger children want the same privileges. Instead of a hard “no” to phone devices or handing over their own phone to let kids send a message to grandparents, Kidibuzz gives children a smartphone-like device that allows them to be digitally connected while at the same time keeping them safe.
The safety comes with parental features such as being able to approve contact lists on “adult” smartphones and setting a time limit for use. Parents can also let kids have access to approved websites, letting them feel as though they’re surfing the web.
New Kidibuzz Features
The first KidiBuzz was released in 2017, selling out over the holidays. The 2019 Kidibuzz G2 has been redesigned with what are being marketed as cool new features, such as the Wonder Masks app. Kids will have fun adding “movement-responsive” face filters to photos.
Another feature incorporates learning with augmented reality (AR) in the “Creature Detective” game. Other educational games cover a wide range of topics – music, learning Spanish, math, science, and problem-solving. And then, of course, there’s music. Children can listen to their favorite tunes or get active with “Kidi Star Dance,” which lets kids have a dance party as they learn 20 different dance moves.
Priced below $100.00 and available at numerous retailers both in-store and online, the Kidibuzz G2 seems like a smart way to introduce your child to a smartphone device – but is it all it’s marketed to be?
What Reviewers Say About Kidibuzz G2
The Kidibuzz G2 was just released on August 14, 2019, and so far, reviews are good. One of the most favorable comes from Rose DesRochers, parent and writer at Today’s Woman. “Overall, the device is certainly a good investment,” writes DesRochers. “As a parent I appreciate I have the ability to set time limits, approve web sites, permit the use of apps and more. There is a separate profile on the phone just for parents, which requires a pass-code to access.”
A review by 123 Child, a website for parents looking for reviews and parenting tips, places the Kidibuzz G2 on their list of “Best Educational Toys For 5 Year Olds.” Another thumb’s up for this new tech device, 123 Child has one problem with Kidibuzz: “The only issue you may run across is your kids lose this fake phone as often as they lose their left sock, lunchbox, and their [right] shoe.”
VTech’s Kidibuzz G2 is promising to be a hit with both children and parents, giving kids the ability to “adult” while parents stay in firm control of what’s happening. It can also be used to educate kids on proper smartphone use. For parents who want to add some positive and educational screen time to their child’s day, Kidibuzz G2 is a device that falls into the EdTech category. It combines education with technology in a way that allows parents to maintain a healthy balance of technology in their child’s life.