In 2020, just under half (46%) of Australian children aged 6 to 13 used a mobile phone, up from 41% in 2015.
“Many parents view them as necessary for keeping their kids connected and safe, especially if they need to get in touch with them when they're not around.” But two third of kids under 12 still don't have a smartphone (63 per cent) with 5 per cent receiving their first device before the age of five.
By the time kids are in middle school, the pressure from kids can be intense, and parents worry that their child will feel isolated if other kids have phones and they don't. According to Common Sense Media, 42 percent of kids have a phone by age 10. By age 12, it's 71 percent. By 14, it's 91 percent.
“In 2019 over 18.5 million Australians own a mobile phone representing 89.9% of Australians.
Ages 12-13
If you're wondering when your kid should own their first phone, the vast majority of Australians agree that the age of 12 to 13 is the right time.
What is the ideal age for a first phone? Your children could be ready for a smartphone or similar device anywhere from 10 to 14, or during middle school. A sixth-grader (typically 10 to 11 years old) could be a good start for considering a phone or a wearable.
Having a phone of their own may help kids socialize and build friendships. Older kids and teens may also use their phones to plan group schoolwork and social gatherings, or even play games together. "Phones can be a tool to promote social skills, such as using them to FaceTime with friends and family," says Reena B.
Apple is currently the most popular mobile phone brand in Australia, with a market share of around 53%.
There are more than 23 million unused phones in Australia according to industry-funded recycler MobileMuster, and they represent a large amount of natural resources that could be recycled.
the average Aussie also checks their phone on average 7.8 times an hour—that's almost every 8 minutes, the most popular apps Aussies say they spend the most time on are Facebook (28%), TikTok (17%) then Instagram (15%), And just over half of Aussies (50.65%) consider themselves addicted to their phones.
Typically, it's best for children under 13 not to engage in romantic relationships as they are still developing emotionally and cognitively. Healthy friendships are encouraged for teenagers between 13 and 15, but romantic relationships could be too much for them to handle.
Is Snapchat safe for preteens and teens? Most kids use Snapchat to goof around and stay in contact with their friends—end of story. Yes, there's some mature content, but it's appropriate for most teens 16 and up.
It doesn't mean you can't take your kid's phone away if you think it's taking too much sleep time. About 25% of children received phones by age 10.7, and 75% by age 12.6.
It is also recommended that parents limit children between the age of two to five years to less than one hour of screen time a day (CPS, 2017). By this time, children are starting to enjoy independence from their parents. They spend most of their time in school and engage in extracurricular activities after school.
87 percent of teenagers surveyed own an iPhone, according to the results, and 88 percent of teens expect an iPhone to be their next phone.
Best Cheap Android Phone: Samsung Galaxy A32 5G
The A32 5G comes with the bells and whistles that 11 year olds ant in a mobile phone. This phone offers a crystal-clear display for watching videos and playing games.
1.1 The mobile ecosystem
These devices are common - there are an estimated 17.9 million smartphones in Australia (Statista, 2019).
Apple's iPhone still dominate the Australian market
Apple saw a small 0.6% increase year-on-year (claiming 44.2% of the market in Q1 2023), while Samsung experienced a drop of 13.2% (with 35.1% in 2023's first quarter).
NSW public secondary school students will be banned from using mobile phones at school from Term 4 2023, as the Minns Government delivers on an election commitment to improve students' learning and social development.
Samsung Galaxy S II, Epic 4G Touch
Officially the Samsung Galaxy S II Epic 4G Touch, Sprint's Galaxy S II variant claimed the dubious honor of having the most long-winded name in cell phone history.
Oppo mainly focuses on the camera quality of its smartphones. It is said to be the best camera android phone. On the other hand, we have the iPhone. The iPhones, hands down, have the best photo and video qualities.
What age is TikTok recommended for? Common Sense recommends the app for age 15+ mainly due to the privacy issues and mature content. TikTok requires that users be at least 13 years old to use the basic TikTok features, although there is a way for younger kids to access the app.
Skip heavy foundation and lipstick for this age group. Allow 12-13 year olds to use concealer for blemishes, eye shadow, eyeliner, powder for oily skin, and a light coat of mascara. Let teens start wearing heavier coverage foundation, bronzer/highlighter, blush, and lipstick.
Yes, unless you are absolutely sure your teenager is able to put the phone away (and not pick it up) at bedtime. That's because screens and sleep do not mix. The light emitted by the typical screen inhibits the production of melatonin in our brains. Melatonin is the chemical that allows us to fall and stay asleep.