Samsung Transforms Galaxy Watch 7 into a Kids Smartwatch
Samsung has unveiled an innovative feature that enables the Galaxy Watch 7 to function as a smartwatch tailored for younger users. This new offering, known as the Galaxy Watch for Kids experience, was introduced at Samsung’s recent Unpacked event. It empowers parents to customize the Galaxy Watch 7, making it more suitable for children.
This specialized mode allows parents to share the watch’s location and activate a Do Not Disturb setting, ensuring that kids stay focused during important tasks like homework or class time. Developed in collaboration with Google, this feature leverages the Google Family Link app to establish parameters and restrictions for the smartwatch.
It’s important to note that this functionality is currently compatible only with the LTE version of the Galaxy Watch 7. Once connected to a parent’s smartphone and activated with a SIM card, the smartwatch can operate independently without the need for constant smartphone pairing.
In addition to location sharing and Do Not Disturb capabilities, the Galaxy Watch for Kids offers features like managing contacts for calls and messages. It also includes an SOS function that allows children to send distress signals to designated contacts by pressing the side button on the Watch 7 multiple times.
Samsung has further enhanced the user experience by introducing new watch faces and straps, adding a touch of fun and personalization to the smartwatch. Users can access a variety of ‘teacher-approved’ apps and watch faces featuring popular characters from Marvel, Barbie, Crayola, and other renowned brands, enhancing the smartwatch’s appeal to young users.
To ensure a safe digital environment, any apps beyond the pre-approved selection require parental consent for download onto the smartwatch. This controlled approach helps parents manage and monitor the content accessible to their children through the device.
The Galaxy Watch for Kids experience has already commenced its rollout in the US, with compatible Galaxy Watch 7 LTE models now available through Samsung, Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T. This initiative follows Apple’s Family Setup feature, introduced with watchOS 7 in 2020, which has since been rebranded as Apple Watch For Your Kids.
While the Galaxy Watch for Kids is a remarkable advancement, some may wonder why Samsung has not extended this functionality to its more budget-friendly Galaxy Watch FE, which lacks the LTE connectivity required for certain features. Nevertheless, this development offers Android users the opportunity to acquire a smartwatch from a reputable brand that caters specifically to their children’s needs.
In conclusion, Samsung’s transformation of the Galaxy Watch 7 into a kids smartwatch represents a significant step towards providing a secure and engaging wearable technology experience for younger users. As the trend of kid-friendly smartwatches continues to evolve, this innovative offering from Samsung sets a new standard for wearable devices tailored to children, offering both functionality and entertainment in a single device.