Pinwheel launches Wi-Fi landline phone for kids to reduce screen time

Pinwheel introduced a retro-inspired Wi-Fi landline phone designed to help children stay connected without the distractions of smartphones. The new device, called Pinwheel Home, targets children aged five to 10 and allows voice calls while giving parents full control over contacts and usage.

Pinwheel Home offers screen-free communication

Unlike smartphones, Pinwheel Home is designed exclusively for voice calls, encouraging children to communicate with friends and family without access to social media, texting or other digital distractions.

Although it resembles a traditional household landline, the device connects over Wi-Fi and does not require a phone jack.

Pinwheel said the phone helps children build confidence using a telephone while reducing reliance on parents' devices.

Parents control contacts and calling limits

The device is managed through Pinwheel's Caregiver Portal, where parents can approve contacts, block unknown callers, spam calls and robocalls, and set calling schedules and time limits.

Other features include speed dial and voicemail, with future software updates expected to add three-way calling and integration with Pinwheel's smartwatches and smartphones using the same phone number.

Two models available

Pinwheel Home is available in two versions.

The Spark model starts at $68 and comes in white, black, blue and purple, while the Classic version costs $79 and features a retro-style handset with customisable stickers in pink, black and white.

Calls between Pinwheel Home devices are free through the company's Pinwheel Circle service. Families wishing to call standard phone numbers can subscribe to plans starting at $6.99 per month for up to five approved contacts or $9.99 per month for unlimited calling.

Launch reflects growing concerns over children's screen time

The launch comes as parents increasingly look for ways to reduce children's screen time amid concerns about its impact on development.

Pinwheel Home joins a growing number of screen-free communication devices aimed at younger users and is available now through the company's website, with an Amazon launch planned for later this year.