GPS smartwatch for children vs mobile phone: 5 key advantages

At a time when more and more families face the dilemma of “should I give my child a phone yet?”, concern about the early, unsupervised use of these devices is growing. According to a BBC analysis, many parents try to set limits when they hand over a phone, but struggle to control unsupervised access to the internet, social media and messaging apps.

Against this backdrop, the GPS smartwatch emerges as a safe middle-ground alternative: a device that already comes with everything needed to stay in touch with your child and know where they are, without exposing them to the risks of a conventional smartphone.

According to a recent study by SaveFamily, 55% of parents believe these devices are a good way to put off giving a child a phone, without giving up the peace of mind of knowing where their child is at all times.

Below, we go through five key benefits of children's GPS smartwatches over the mobile phone.

Safety without access to the internet or social media

Unlike a phone, which offers full internet access, GPS watches are designed with a single aim: to look after children without exposing them to digital risks.

They have no browser and no access to YouTube, TikTok or Instagram.
They can only communicate with previously approved contacts.
In an emergency, the SOS button dials three contacts in sequence and sends the location in real time. The watch automatically calls contact 1. If there's no answer, it calls contact 2, and if there's still no answer, contact 3. If the third contact doesn't pick up, it starts the cycle again until someone answers.
Parents can also enable features such as remote listening, blocking unknown calls or setting up safe zones.

The SaveWatch Plus is one of the most complete models in this regard: it features an SOS button, video calling, advanced parental controls and an ultra-slim design intended for children aged 8 and over.

Real parental control, with no loopholes

While phones let you install control apps, many of these can be easily switched off by the child themselves.

By contrast, children's GPS smartwatches have parental controls built in natively:

Only parents can add or remove contacts.
Use can be restricted by time of day with class mode.
Features such as secure WhatsApp, the camera or games can be switched on or off.

All of this is managed through the SaveFamily app for parents — intuitive, free and ad-free — allowing you to keep an eye on things continuously without having to step in on your child's day-to-day use.

Designed specifically for children

Smartphones are made for adults. In size, features and design, they are not suitable for younger children. A children's GPS watch, on the other hand, is tailored to their real needs:

A simple screen and menu, designed so children can use them without frustration.
They come with IP67 protection, which means they withstand splashes, dust and everyday use without any trouble. They are not designed for prolonged use underwater or for submersion at the beach or in the pool, but they are made to keep up with children's active pace and to survive minor everyday mishaps.
Comfortable and lightweight: no bother when wearing a coat or a rucksack.
A visual interface, large icons and accessible physical buttons.

At this stage, a children's GPS watch should be simple, intuitive and focused on the essential features that ensure safety and contact with the family.

The SaveFamily Enjoy is an excellent choice for covering the basic needs at this age: real-time location, calls and video calls with approved contacts, an SOS button and class mode to avoid distractions at school.

For those looking for the most complete model in the junior range, the Iconic Plus 2 adds advanced features such as secure WhatsApp, parental control from the app, safe AI, a vital-signs monitor and a customisable design with interchangeable straps.

They foster independence without cutting children off from the world around them

One of parents' biggest fears is losing contact with their children when they start getting around on their own. But the trouble with a phone is that it doesn't just connect — it also distracts and isolates.

GPS watches let children:

Call or message only their chosen contacts, or those added in advance through the anti-spam contact list.
Be located at all times.
Explore the world freely, but under supervision.

Our watches are ideal for those first journeys to school or outings with friends, where independence begins but a guiding hand is still essential.

They are a genuine tool for putting off the phone

These days, many children get their first phone before the age of 9. But is it really necessary?

One in three parents surveyed by SaveFamily consider GPS watches the best way to put off phone use without losing touch with their children.

No social media
No access to inappropriate content
No constant notifications
No dependence on the screen

The GPS watch reduces unnecessary digital exposure and encourages a more balanced use of technology from the outset. At the same time, it gives families peace of mind and makes for a more mindful upbringing.

Which model should you choose?

For children aged 4 and over, the Iconic Plus 2 and Enjoy models are the lightest, simplest and safest options to start with.

From the age of 8, the SaveWatch Plus offers more advanced features such as face unlock, video calling and secure WhatsApp that parents can enable.

Both models share SaveFamily's common goal: to protect without isolating, to connect without overexposing, and to support every child on their path towards digital independence.