AT&T launched the amiGO Jr. Phone today, a Samsung-built smartphone designed specifically for children aged 12 and under. The device costs $209.99 outright or $2.99 per month on installment plans, positioning it as a dedicated alternative to handing kids regular smartphones with added restrictions.
The carrier partnered with Samsung for hardware development, creating what AT&T calls the first carrier-made smartphone built from the ground up for children. Rather than modifying existing Galaxy models with parental controls, the amiGO Jr. Phone ships with limits already integrated into its software experience.
Parental management happens through AT&T's free amiGO app, available on both Android and iOS devices. The software enables real-time location tracking, Safe Zones alerts for designated areas, school schedule enforcement, and screen time controls.
Parents can approve app downloads and manage settings remotely from their own phones.
AT&T's market research shows strong demand for this approach. The company reports 60% of parents with children under 12 view smartphones as safety essentials, while 70% prioritize emergency calling and location tracking over entertainment features. Most prefer buying their child's first phone from their existing wireless provider.
Hardware specifications reveal the device as essentially a rebranded Samsung Galaxy A16 with specialized software. It features a 6.7-inch display, Exynos 1330 chipset, 4GB of RAM, 128GB of storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with fast charging capabilities. The familiar Samsung components ensure reliable performance while the custom software layer restricts access to standard Android features.
Alongside the phone, AT&T introduced the amiGO Jr. Watch 2, available for the same $2.99 monthly rate. The updated smartwatch offers improved durability, native messaging capabilities, simple games, and a rewards system. Both devices target parents seeking connectivity options before their children are ready for full smartphones.
The amiGO Jr. Phone joins AT&T's existing kid-focused lineup, which includes tablets and earlier smartwatch models. All devices in the series support location sharing, geofencing, approved contacts lists, and scheduled usage restrictions during school hours.
The ecosystem approach aims to provide graduated technology access as children mature.
Availability begins immediately through AT&T's retail channels and online store. No trade-in is required for the monthly installment option, making the devices accessible to families without existing device equity. The carrier positions the launch as addressing growing parental concerns about balancing safety needs with digital exposure risks.
