Pinwheel launches retro-style landline phone for children
7 reported
Pinwheel announced Tuesday the launch of Pinwheel Home, a modern take on a classic household phone designed for children ages 5 to 10. The device operates over Wi-Fi and is built solely for voice calls, aiming to provide a screen-free communication option. Parents control the device through Pinwheel’s Caregiver Portal, where they can approve contacts, block unknown callers, and set calling schedules and time limits. The launch comes amid growing concerns about technology’s impact on children’s development, with studies cited in the announcement linking excessive screen time to emotional and behavioral challenges. Pinwheel Home is available now through the company’s website and is expected to launch on Amazon this fall.
What’s reported
Pinwheel Home is a Wi-Fi-enabled landline-style phone for children ages 5 to 10.
The device is designed for voice calls only, with no texting or social media.
Parents manage contacts, block unknown callers, and set time limits via the Caregiver Portal.
Two models are available: Spark at $68 and Classic at $79.
Calls between Pinwheel Home devices are free through the Pinwheel Circle service.
Plans for calling standard phone numbers start at $6.99 per month for up to five contacts or $9.99 per month for unlimited calling.
The device competes with Tin Can, a $100 Wi-Fi landline with a similar parent-controlled app.
Key figures
Pinwheel (company, no specific individuals named)
Sources: TechCrunch
