Trendopoly — May 6, 2007 — Tech
References: query.nytimes & debroffdebrief.clubmom
Everyone seems to have a cell phone these days - even kids - and the wireless industry is quickly closing in on the one remaining demographic... pre-teens. There has been a growing trend that's making a cell phone a MUST HAVE for kids as young as 6 years old.
Of course, most parents are very alarmed at this trend and they balk at the necessity of a cell phone for their child. In addition to the cost there are big concerns that if kids are getting cell phone in first grade, what will their list of requests include in Grade 5?
Of course the wireless industry is smart. They prey upon parents who work full-time by luring them with the tracking capabilities of their specialized phones and by using names like 'Chaperone' to make parents feel like they'd be doing a disservice to their children by denying them a phone.
Of course, most parents are very alarmed at this trend and they balk at the necessity of a cell phone for their child. In addition to the cost there are big concerns that if kids are getting cell phone in first grade, what will their list of requests include in Grade 5?
Of course the wireless industry is smart. They prey upon parents who work full-time by luring them with the tracking capabilities of their specialized phones and by using names like 'Chaperone' to make parents feel like they'd be doing a disservice to their children by denying them a phone.
Trend Themes
1. Cell Phones for Young Children - As the wireless industry expands its market to younger children, opportunities arise for developing low-cost, durable and safe phones that cater to children's needs.
2. Specialized Phones for Parents - The trend of wireless carriers marketing specialized phones with tracking capabilities to parents presents a disruption opportunity for developers to create more advanced, user-friendly tracking features.
3. Debate Over the Need for Young Children to Have Cell Phones - As the trend of younger children owning cell phones becomes more prevalent, the debate over the necessity of such devices for young children presents an opportunity for developers and marketers to offer alternatives or counter-arguments.
Industry Implications
1. Wireless Carriers - Wireless carriers have an opportunity to design specialized plans and services tailored to the unique needs and concerns of young children and their parents.
2. Child Technology Developers - The trend of young children owning cell phones presents an opportunity for developers to create phones that are durable, safe and low-cost, with features and designs that cater to children.
3. Advanced Tracking Technology Developers - As wireless carriers market phones with tracking capabilities to parents, there is an opportunity for advanced tracking technology developers to offer more user-friendly and efficient tracking solutions.
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