UK dad and mom really feel pressured to purchase smartphones for teenagers as younger as 8, research reveals

The average age a child is given a smartphone is just nine years old new research reveals

A survey of 500 parents with children aged between 8 and 13 showed that 57% of parents felt pressure from their children to buy them a smartphone at an early age.

Additionally, nearly half of these parents admitted they had been “guilt-tripped” into the purchase, while 44% were worried their child might feel left out without one.

Despite concerns, 25% of parents admitted to providing a smartphone without properly discussing their child’s emotional readiness for such technology.

The survey also revealed that 13% of parents enforce little to no restrictions on their child’s phone usage. Two-thirds believed their kids would still find ways to bypass these boundaries anyway.

The study, commissioned by Motorola, shines a light on the challenges parents face with this milestone. To support parents, the research highlighted resources like Parent Talk, a platform run by UK charity Action for Children, which offers guidance on navigating these decisions.

“Deciding when to give your child their first phone isn’t easy because there’s no ‘right’ age,” said Jo Thurston, a service coordinator for Action for Children. She stressed the importance of evaluating the need for the phone in the first place.

“Before making the decision, consider why they need a phone in the first place. Is it for safety when they’re away from you? Would a basic phone for calls and texts be enough, or would they need a smartphone?” she suggested.

Jo also encouraged parents to have open conversations with their children about safe online practices. “It’s also important to consider whether they understand online safety and what rules, checks, and parental controls you’ll implement to keep them safe.” she said.

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As part of the study, Motorola also surveyed 500 children aged 8 to 13. Alarmingly, the results revealed that 44% of children had used the internet or apps without their parents’ knowledge. Among them, 31% had encountered content they felt was inappropriate for their age.

“If you do choose to give your child a phone, it’s crucial to have open and honest conversations with them,” said Jo. She also emphasised the importance of setting clear boundaries, explaining that smartphones are an opportunity to remain connected as a family, both online and in real life.

Despite concerns, 84% of parents still opt for smartphones over simpler devices. Safety emerged as the leading factor, with 56% citing features like GPS tracking as benefits, while many also valued access to educational resources.

A Motorola representative explained, “Smartphones have become a key part of daily life for families, helping them stay connected and providing access to learning and entertainment.

“However, it’s crucial for parents to equip children with the right guidance and boundaries for smartphone use and internet access.”

Motorola reaffirmed its commitment to supporting parents through partnerships with organisations like Action for Children. “Our goal is to provide families with the tools and knowledge to navigate this decision confidently,” the spokesperson added.