One of the UK’s largest mobile network providers, EE, has issued a stern warning to parents against giving smartphones to children under the age of 11. The advice comes amidst growing concerns about the potential negative impact of smartphone usage on young children’s mental health and their exposure to harmful online content.

A recent study by Ofcom revealed that nearly a quarter of children aged five to seven now own a smartphone. In response, EE has recommended that parents limit primary school-aged children to ‘limited capability devices’ that do not have internet access or social media apps. For children aged 11 to 16, EE advises parents to enable parental control features and restrict access to social media altogether for those under 13.

Mat Sears, corporate affairs director for EE, emphasized the importance of supporting parents in making informed decisions about their children’s smartphone usage. “While technology and connectivity have the power to transform lives, we recognise the growing complexity of smartphones can be challenging for parents and care givers,” he said. “They need support, which is why we are launching new guidelines on smartphone usage for under 11s, 11–13-year-olds, and 13 -16-year-olds to help them make the best choices for their children through these formative years.”

The issue of smartphone usage among young people has sparked intense debate in recent years. Campaigners, charities, and politicians have argued that easy access to social media and the wider internet has contributed to a mental health crisis among children. A survey by Parentkind found that over four in five parents believe smartphones are harmful to children and young people, and nearly 60% support a mobile phone ban for under-16s.

Esther Ghey, the mother of murdered teenager Brianna Ghey, has been a vocal advocate for an age limit on smartphone usage and stricter controls on access to social media apps. In May, the House of Commons Education Committee called for the government to consider a total ban on phones for under-16s, but Prime Minister Keir Starmer has ruled out such a move.

Carolyn Bunting, chief executive of online safety group Internet Matters, praised EE’s advice as “timely and much-needed.” She noted that parents want their children to be able to stay connected and experience the benefits of digital technology, but they are also concerned about online safety and wellbeing. “It is fantastic that EE is supporting parents with age-specific advice to support children’s diverse technology needs,” she said.