The Bark Phone is a unique offering in the realm of smartphones designed specifically for children. It combines the robust hardware of a Samsung Galaxy A13 with specialized software that caters to both safety and functionality, making it a compelling choice for parents who want to ensure their children’s safety in the digital world.

Design and Build

At first glance, the Bark Phone resembles any other standard smartphone, which is a deliberate choice to appeal to children who desire a device that looks like what adults use. The phone features a 6.6-inch display with a resolution of 2408 x 1080 pixels, providing clear and vibrant visuals. Its dimensions (6.5 by 3.0 by 0.35 inches) make it slightly larger, which might be a consideration for younger users, but it remains lightweight at 6.87 ounces.

Performance and Features

Under the hood, the Bark Phone is powered by an Exynos 850 processor paired with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSD card. This configuration is adequate for everyday tasks and the specific needs of its target users. The phone includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is increasingly rare in modern smartphones, allowing for traditional audio connectivity 1.

Parental Controls

The standout feature of the Bark Phone is its comprehensive parental control suite. Unlike typical parental control apps that can be uninstalled or bypassed, the Bark Phone integrates these controls directly into the operating system, making them tamper-proof. Parents can monitor social media activity, manage screen time, approve app downloads, and receive alerts for potential dangers. The phone also offers GPS tracking with geofencing capabilities, ensuring parents can keep an eye on their child’s location.

Connectivity and Plans

The Bark Phone operates on Bark’s own network, which may limit carrier flexibility but ensures consistent application of parental controls. The phone is available with various monthly plans, starting from $39 per month, which include unlimited talk and text, and options for data plans 2.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional Parental Controls: The phone’s controls are more refined than those available on standalone apps, offering features like app approval and remote internet shutdown.
• Durable Build: The phone is robust, with added protection from a case.
• No Contract Required: Flexibility in choosing plans without long-term commitments.

Cons:

• Pricey Monthly Plans: The cost can add up, especially with higher data options.
• Limited Network Compatibility: The phone is restricted to Bark’s network, which might not be ideal for all users.

Conclusion

The Bark Phone is an excellent choice for parents seeking a balance between giving their children access to technology and ensuring their safety online. Its design appeals to children, while its robust parental controls provide peace of mind for parents. Despite some limitations, such as network restrictions and the absence of a charging brick, the Bark Phone stands out as a top contender in the market for children’s smartphones, offering a secure and manageable digital experience .