The decision of when to give a child their first smartphone is a complex one for many families. It often balances the need for connectivity with the desire to protect young users from the potential dangers of unfettered access to the digital world. The HMD Fusion X1 is a device designed to ease some of that pressure by providing parents with more control and supervision over their child’s digital experiences.
According to Common Sense Media, nearly half of children have a smartphone by the age of 10, a number that jumps to 91% by age 14. The Fusion X1 is positioned as a solution for the stage when messaging becomes essential for children, but full access to a traditional smartphone feels premature.
The device offers more than just basic phone capabilities, with features like a decent camera, Android 14 operating system, a 5000mAh battery, and USB-C charging. However, what sets it apart is its initial setup. Unlike traditional smartphones, the Fusion X1 starts as a near-blank slate, with only essential apps like the camera, gallery, file manager, Play Store, and HMD’s battery app accessible. Parents can gradually add apps one by one, providing a foundational approach to digital life.
The Xplora Teen app, pre-installed on the device, allows parents to control which apps are visible, manage contacts, and set usage restrictions during specific times like school hours or bedtime. It also includes features like call and message whitelisting, real-time app hiding, Safe Walk mode, location tracking, safety zones, and ICE calling.
One of the standout features of the Fusion X1 is its longevity. It is designed to grow with the child, allowing for the gradual relaxation of restrictions and the addition of new apps as the child demonstrates responsibility. This approach not only benefits the child but also reduces electronic waste compared to disposable feature phones.
However, there are some limitations to the device, such as the lack of control over Google Chrome, YouTube, and the Play Store. HMD recommends using Google’s Family Link service for additional content filtering and app approval. While the Fusion X1 offers advanced features like multiple safe zones, Google’s free service may be more appealing to budget-conscious parents.
It’s important to note that constant location tracking, a feature included in the subscription, may raise privacy concerns as the child grows older. Trust between parent and child is crucial, and disabling tracking as the child matures can help build that trust.
In the end, while the Fusion X1 provides valuable tools for parents to guide their child’s digital habits, open communication and mutual understanding remain essential for navigating the online world safely. Technology can only go so far in protecting children; honest conversations and setting clear expectations are key in fostering a healthy relationship with technology.
For adults feeling overwhelmed by their smartphones, exploring alternatives like dumbphones or the resurgence of devices like the BlackBerry may offer a welcome respite from the digital noise.
