A new smartphone aimed at children is seeking to challenge the traditional approach to children's technology by encouraging exploration, creativity and independence rather than endless screen time.
Developed by startup Freckle in collaboration with design studio Body Shop, the device is targeted at children aged seven to 13 and includes AI-powered tools designed to help them engage more with the world around them.
Built around exploration
Unlike most smartphones, Freckle does not include social media platforms, a web browser or an app store.
Instead, it offers a collection of features intended to encourage children to spend time outdoors and develop a sense of independence.
Among them is a Quests feature, which allows children to complete missions and challenges, either pre-designed or created by parents. Examples include spotting insects, identifying plants or exploring local parks and neighbourhoods.
A Discovery Camera uses AI to help identify animals, insects, plants and objects photographed by users, providing information about what they find.
Other tools include story-building activities, child-friendly maps, a music player and a walkie-talkie function.
Focus on independence rather than surveillance
Freckle founder Sam Terris said the idea emerged from concerns about declining independence among children and the impact this may have on development.
According to Terris, many existing products aimed at children focus heavily on parental monitoring and control, whereas Freckle aims to balance safety with opportunities for children to make decisions and explore independently.
The phone includes safeguards such as alerts when children leave designated safe areas, but avoids continuous location tracking or detailed activity monitoring.
AI with limits
Artificial intelligence powers several features on the device, including question-answering, object recognition and interactive storytelling.
However, Freckle does not include an open-ended chatbot or AI companion.
The company says its AI systems are designed for specific tasks and are intended to encourage interaction with parents, friends and the physical world rather than prolonged conversations with software.
Privacy protections
Freckle has also pledged to implement strict privacy protections.
The company says it will require verified parental consent, limit data retention periods and prohibit the use of children's information for training AI models.
Launch later this year
The phone features a rugged case designed for outdoor use and can be customised with decorative accessories.
Freckle's backers include Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian and his venture capital firm Seven Seven Six.
The company plans to launch initially in the United States, with shipping expected to begin in December 2026.
Source: Dezeen
