Should I choose an iPhone or Android for my child's first phone?
3 min read Published 13 Nov 2026
By Bertie Aspinall, Co-Founder, SafetyModeBoth iPhone and Android can be made reasonably safe for a child. The best choice usually depends on what the rest of the family uses, your budget, and how far you want to go with safety tools.
How they compare
iPhone: typically costs more, though older or refurbished models bring it down. Built-in controls are Screen Time, Communication Safety and Communication Limits, and it's easiest to manage if you also use an iPhone. Extra safety apps are limited, because Apple restricts what third-party apps can see. Best for families already using Apple devices.
Android: the widest range, from budget to premium. Built-in controls are Family Link and Android Parental Controls, and Family Link works from an Android phone or an iPhone. There are more options for extra safety apps, including apps that filter content inside other apps. Best for families wanting more choice of handset and safety tools.
Basic ("brick") phone: the lowest cost, with calls and texts only, so few controls are needed. Best for younger children who mainly need to call home.
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This article is published by ParentBoost. It was written or reviewed for ParentBoost by the contributor below and edited by our team. It is general information for parents, not individual professional advice.
Bertie Aspinall
Co-Founder, SafetyMode
Bertie Aspinall is co-founder of SafetyMode and OtherPhone, where he works on technology to make smartphones safer for children and teenagers. He studied Aeronautical Engineering at the University of Cambridge and worked at the European Commission and Virgin Atlantic. During the pandemic he helped build Doctors in Distress, a charity supporting the mental health of NHS staff, where he remains an ambassador. ParentBoost has teamed up with OtherPhone and earns a commission when members buy one.
This article is general guidance for parents and carers, not medical, health, legal or other professional advice. Every child is different. If you're worried about your child's health or development, talk to your GP, health visitor or another suitable professional. In an emergency, call 999. For urgent advice, call NHS 111.
