In today’s digital age, many parents face the challenging task of navigating their children’s access to technology while ensuring their safety online. Acknowledging these concerns, Pinwheel, a pioneering tech company focused on creating child-friendly devices, is rolling out an innovative solution that provides a safe means for children to stay connected without the complications associated with smartphones. Their latest product, the Pinwheel Watch, is specifically designed for children aged 7 to 14, offering an alternative that effectively shields young users from the potential risks of social media and unrestricted internet access.

The Pinwheel Watch is equipped with a range of features that make it not only a communication tool but also a fun gadget for kids. With a sleek black design and a display that surpasses the size of an Apple Watch, the smartwatch has quickly caught the attention of both children and parents. Priced at $160, with an additional $15 per month for subscription services, the watch became available for purchase on Pinwheel.com just last week. Reviews and tests conducted over the past few days have showcased its versatile functionalities.

One of the standout features of the Pinwheel Watch is its built-in AI assistant, known as PinwheelGPT. Designed to provide a safer alternative to conventional AI chatbots, this assistant allows children to ask questions on various subjects, from daily curiosities to school-related inquiries, while ensuring a safer interaction. The company has implemented strict safeguards, aiming to prevent exposure to sensitive or inappropriate topics. During our testing, it was noted that PinwheelGPT successfully avoided engaging with queries of a violent or unsuitable nature.

While many parents may approach AI chatbots with skepticism, citing potential misinformation or unhealthy reliance, Pinwheel has made it clear that they prioritize safety. Parents are allowed full access to all chatbot interactions, including both active and deleted chats, enabling them to monitor exchanges and intervene if necessary. As Dane Witbeck, founder of Pinwheel and a father of four, stated, “We have not received any pushback from parents because it’s possible, if they are concerned, to remove the PinwheelGPT from the watch or turn it off via your own controls.” Moreover, Witbeck emphasized the company’s commitment to user privacy, affirming that they do not utilize any personal data for AI training purposes.

Pinwheel's expansion into the smartwatch market follows the successful launch of their child-safe phone in 2020. In just four years, the company has gained significant traction, earning a place on the Inc. 5000 list as one of the fastest-growing companies in America for 2024. The move into smartwatches aligns perfectly with the booming $100 billion smart wearable market, allowing Pinwheel to carve out a niche specifically catered to children, setting itself apart from competitors such as Fitbit, which primarily focus on health tracking.

Beyond its AI capabilities, the Pinwheel Watch also features functionalities such as voice commands for calls and text messaging, a camera for video calls and selfies, and a selection of mini-games, including a Tetris-like game. The accompanying Caregiver app enables parents to create a “Safelist” of approved contacts, ensuring children communicate only with trusted individuals. Furthermore, the app allows parents to set specific time restrictions, controlling access during school hours or camps, which can be customized to limit contacts to emergency numbers during the day and unrestricted access in the evening.

This watch is not only about fun; it incorporates essential monitoring features that can be particularly beneficial for parents of younger children. An AI text summary feature is included, which provides concise overviews of children’s messaging activity, further supporting parents in staying informed about their kids’ communications.

Currently, the Pinwheel Watch is available to consumers in the U.S., Australia, Canada, and the U.K., with plans for further international expansion. The device is also set to be offered on Amazon later this summer, although a specific launch date has yet to be announced. As technology continues to evolve, the Pinwheel Watch represents a significant step forward in making smart technology safe and accessible for younger generations.