In a significant move, tech giant Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) has introduced its new Apple Watch for kids in India, aiming to combine communication and safety features without the necessity of a personal iPhone. The announcement, made on Wednesday, highlights a versatile device designed to support easy calling, texting, and activity monitoring tailored for children.
Apple emphasized the functionality of the watch for young users, stating, “The Apple Watch for kids remains operational even if they don’t possess their own iPhone.” This development is particularly beneficial for parents hesitant to provide their children with mobile phones.
The company specified that the “Apple Watch For Your Kids” is available in India on cellular models of the Apple Watch Series 4 or later, including the Apple Watch SE. These watches can be paired with an iPhone 8 or later, running the latest versions of watchOS and iOS. “This innovation integrates the communication, health, fitness, and safety features of the Apple Watch for kids and other family members who do not yet have an iPhone,” Apple elaborated.
Setup is streamlined through a parent’s iPhone, enabling straightforward calling and texting capabilities. The watch allows parents to monitor their child’s location while ensuring all personal data remains securely encrypted. Moreover, parents have the authority to approve contacts, ensuring safe communication for their children.
Beyond its benefits for children, the entire family can leverage critical health and safety features of the Apple Watch, such as Emergency SOS. The watch also provides independence through functionalities like Maps, Siri, Alarms, and access to the App Store, all without needing an iPhone.
Children using the Apple Watch will have their own phone number via a separate cellular plan and their own Apple ID. A wireless service plan for the Apple Watch is necessary for cellular service, which is currently available through Jio in India.
“This initiative marks a step towards greater safety and connectivity for families, ensuring children stay connected and secure,” Apple concluded.
