HMD Global and Xplora Technologies have announced a strategic collaboration to address parents’ concerns about technology’s impact on their children.
In a study by HMD and Perspectus Global, over 10,000 parents across five countries— the UK, US, India, Germany, and Australia—highlighted their worries. Findings showed that 60% of parents are anxious about smartphone overuse, 50% regret giving smartphones at a young age, and 70% of parents admit their smartphone-free childhood meant they engaged more with their family
Earlier this year, HMD launched “The Better Phone Project” to address these issues. Now, in partnership with Norway’s Xplora, a leader in children’s smartwatches, HMD is working on a suite of solutions including kid-friendly feature phones and smartwatches designed for mindful digital use. Xplora will design the devices, and HMD will handle distribution, aiming to provide alternatives to smartphones that limit distractions and prioritize child safety.
What to expect from HMD’s anti-addiction devices?
Expected to launch in March 2025 at MWC, these devices will integrate features like parental controls, smart home connectivity, and eSIM functionality. These “anti-addiction” devices are tailored to foster healthy digital habits, allowing parents to manage screen time and social media usage effectively.
HMD CEO Jean-Francois Baril expressed excitement about creating technology that places “human” values at its core. Xplora CEO Sten Kirkbak added that the collaboration will help Xplora expand into the youth tech market while supporting young users’ digital well-being.
This collaboration seeks to create tech tools that encourage a balanced relationship with technology, providing safe, distraction-free experiences for young users.
Commenting on the partnership with Xplora, CEO and chairman of HMD, Jean-Francois Baril said: “We are excited to join forces with Xplora to deliver tech solutions tailored to the unique needs of children and young people.”
“At Human Mobile Devices, putting ‘human’ at the core of everything we do is in our DNA. Our teams oversee the complete development process, from software to hardware, ensuring top-tier quality, certification, and security. This allows us to foster a healthy and positive relationship with technology—providing all the essential features, without any unnecessary distractions,” Baril added.
(Source)
Comments