AT&T launches budget smartphone for kids with parental controls

AT&T has introduced the AmiGO Jr. Phone, a modified Samsung Galaxy A16 designed specifically for children, featuring built-in parental controls. The device allows parents to monitor location, set screen time limits, and restrict content through a dedicated app. Priced affordably at $3 per month under a long-term contract, it marks the first such standalone product from a major U.S. carrier.

In a move to address parental concerns over children's smartphone use, AT&T unveiled the AmiGO Jr. Phone on February 8, 2026. This device is essentially a customized version of the Samsung Galaxy A16, a reliable budget smartphone equipped with a 50-megapixel main camera, a 6.7-inch display, and strong battery performance. What sets it apart is the integration of AT&T's AmiGO app, which enables features like live location tracking, safe zone alerts, and screen time restrictions—all manageable remotely by parents.

While parental control options exist from third-party providers such as Bark and Pinwheel, which have been available for years, AT&T's offering is notable as the first from a major wireless carrier. The phone is available exclusively through AT&T's website for $3 monthly, but requires a 36-month commitment that includes bill credits toward the device. Customers must also cover standard monthly service fees, making it a more economical choice compared to purchasing the base Galaxy A16 for $200 outright.

To bolster its family-oriented ecosystem, AT&T simultaneously released the AmiGO Jr. Watch 2, complementing an existing kids' tablet. This expansion aims to provide comprehensive tools for safeguarding young users in an increasingly digital world, without fully restricting access to essential technology.

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Samsung unveiling Galaxy S26 series and Buds 4 at Unpacked 2026 event in San Francisco.
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Samsung launched its Galaxy S26 lineup, including the S26, S26 Plus and S26 Ultra, alongside the Galaxy Buds 4 and Buds 4 Pro at the Galaxy Unpacked 2026 event in San Francisco on February 25. The new phones feature enhanced AI capabilities and start at $900, with preorders available immediately and shipping set for March 11. The event highlighted integrations with Perplexity AI and Google Gemini for more proactive assistance.

The Google Pixel 10A and Samsung Galaxy A57 stand out as leading midrange smartphones in 2026, despite limited upgrades from predecessors and supply chain pressures. Priced at $499 and slightly higher respectively, they offer distinct designs and features for budget-conscious buyers. A CNET comparison highlights their strengths in performance, cameras, and software support.

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AT&T has replaced its existing unlimited phone plans with new 2.0 versions that offer more features at generally lower prices. The carrier introduced four tiers, including a premium Elite 2.0 option for high-end users. Existing customers must pay a fee to switch.

Meta has introduced parent-managed accounts on WhatsApp, allowing children under the age of 13 to use the messaging app more safely under supervision. These accounts include controls to limit contacts and restrict certain features. The rollout will begin gradually in the coming months.

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