What is it?
A GPS-enabled smartwatch aimed at keeping children happy, active and safe.
Good points?
Like smartphones before them, smartwatches are appealing to children. Often, they associate them with being older and important, not least when they see adults glued to them.
One oft cited downside is that technology can encourage sedentary behaviour. Xplora, aimed at children aged four to 11, turns that notion on its head with the GoPlay activity platform promoting better balance between screen time and activity by making exercise fun and interactive.
The success of Pokemon Go is testament to this type of technology integrating into our lives and helping develop new healthier habits.
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Offering incentives for activity is a great idea, especially when based around games that incorporate step counts with competitive leaderboards. In this case, 1,000 steps equate to one Xplora coin. These can be traded for rewards such as game time or merchandise.
You can make voice calls and communicate via SMS over 4G via a SIM card. The Android OS works well with the 1.4-inch (3.5cm) TFT display.
While the smartwatch brings a sense of independence to the user, you can ensure this isn’t taken advantage of with the ability to locate the device at any time using the accompanying smartphone app.
You can also set up boundary safe zones on a map which, if breached, will trigger an alert. Limiting communication to 50 approved contacts is another security measure which parents will appreciate.
Bad points?
None spring to mind. It is easy to set up and use.
Best for ...
Those who want their children to experience the latest technology in the safest way possible.
READ MORE: Shetland author Ann Cleeves on her enduring love for Fair Isle
Avoid if ...
You would rather shield your children from the trappings of technology entirely.
Score: 9.5/10.
Xplora X5 Play Smartwatch, £159.99 (myxplora.co.uk)
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