It started out as an attempt to help adults break away from their dependency on their phones. A smaller, pocket-size phone, reminiscent of an older iPhone that would allow you to stay minimally connected. The Palm Phone was designed to be a phone that you could utilize when you wanted to be away from your smart phone. And now, it might just be the new “intro” phone for kids.
Released last November, the Palm phone was initially only an accessory to an existing phone that would be able to handle calls, texts and a few other functions. The company hasn’t been shy that its product was intended to help people break their reliance on their smart phones and be more present. Couple this philosophy with the ever-growing parental concern that their kids are spending too much time on devices and Palm phone may have just found a new market with parents of young children.
The Palm unlocked will now be available as a stand-alone phone and compatible with several carriers. This makes it an easy introductory phone for kids. Dennis Miloseski, co-Founder of Palm, tells Parentology, that marketing toward parents and kids was a natural evolution, “We received feedback about having a more focused device around peace of mind, calls, messaging without the dangers of social media like Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram, etc., which large screens encourage.”
Palm allows kids to be connected for tracking, security, calls and messaging — without all of the trappings of a smart phone. It’s smaller, made with Gorilla glass, water-proof and has a much more attractive price point for parents –around $350. But, will it be “cool” enough for kids? Miloseski thinks so, “Unlike other “kids” phones, Palm is beautifully designed, made with high-quality materials. It looks and feels like an “adult” phone because it is.”
The idea is that this is a great first phone for parents who want their kids connected because it’s intentionally limited in functions. “As a device focused around communication for parents and kids, it’s not built for Minecraft, YouTube, social dangers, etc.,” Miloseski says. “Palm encourages a healthy introduction into the world of smartphones, starting with just the essentials.”
While the target audience is most likely kids ages eight-13, Miloseski thinks it can be used by anyone, “Palm is a family device and can be good for all ages, especially if a family is looking for better digital well-being.”
Which brings the intention of the company full circle. Palm was originally designed to help adults with their phone addiction. Is there a chance a new generation of children introduced to phones with fewer features might not have the same issue? Miloseski is hopeful, “The addiction to phones starts at an early age, so if parents are willing to educate their kids on both messaging, plus as a family following the same rules, we definitely believe that Palm can help with future dependence.”
Sources:
Palm
Dennis Miloseki, co-Founder of Palm
CNET: Palm’s head-scratching tiny phone may find a niche with kids