The Xplora XGO3 is a smartwatch specially developed for children that combines safety and fun. With its multiple functions, it offers parents the opportunity to manage and monitor communication with their children while giving children a sense of independence. We explain what’s behind the smartwatch for children.
In a nutshell:
- Smartwatch for children aged 5 to 12 years
- GPS tracking, SOS emergency call function, pedometer, call and message function (limited), school mode
- Compatible with iOS and Android
- Costs: around €100, depending on the provider and contract model
What is behind the offer?
The Xplora XGO3 is designed to provide children with a degree of safety while allowing them to explore the world around them and develop their independence. For you as a parent, the smartwatch is a tool for monitoring and managing communication with your child. It is not a fully-fledged smartwatch, but is designed with children in mind and can be operated intuitively by touch.
Key features include GPS tracking to keep track of your child’s whereabouts, an SOS emergency call function in case of an emergency and a limited communication option to enable contact with trusted people. Making phone calls and sending (voice) messages is possible, surfing the Internet is excluded. You cannot enter your own texts for messages.
You can also use the parent app on your smartphone to set a school mode for your child’s school hours and a safety zone in which your child can move around freely without you being notified.
What fascinates children and young people about it?
Children and teenagers love the opportunity to wear a smartwatch like adults, but one that is specially tailored to their needs. Functions such as answering calls from pre-authorized contacts and sending SOS messages offer security and a feeling of independence. The little extras such as games or the mini camera can also be fun. In addition, the integrated pedometer motivates children to stay active and promote their fitness.
What can be problematic about the offer?
- Data protection and
privacy
The use of GPS tracking and communication functions can entail data protection risks
-
Communication risks
Restricted calling and messaging cannot completely eliminate the possibility of unwanted contacts.
- Distraction: The constant availability of calls and messages as well as the possibility of playing games can lead to distractions and impair your child’s concentration.
- Dependence on technology: The availability of features such as GPS tracking and instant communication can lead to your child relying too much on the smartwatch and becoming less independent.
What does the provider think?
The provider emphasizes the importance of data protection and provides data protection settings to protect the privacy of users. Parental control functions are also offered to monitor and restrict use. The provider emphasizes that the safety and protection of children is the top priority.
What should parents pay attention to?
- Adjust the settings: Take your time to adjust the smartwatch settings according to your child’s needs and age.
- Data protection and privacy: Talk to your child about the importance of data protection and security when using technological devices. Agree rules with your child about the use of GPS tracking – because your child also has the right to free development, albeit in a protected space.
- Contact restrictions: Check your child’s contact list regularly and make sure that only trustworthy people have access to the smartwatch’s communication functions. Explain to your child why these restrictions are important and how they should react if they are contacted by strangers.
- Communication and use: Use the communication features to stay in touch and teach your child to use it responsibly. For example, explain that your child is not allowed to simply take photos of others without asking their permission first.
- Independence and freedom: Encourage your child to be independent even without the smartwatch, to move around freely and to develop skills such as a sense of direction and social skills.
- Rules at your school: Find out in advance about any guidelines regarding the use of smartwatches at your child’s school.
