Verizon expanded its selection of kids’ electronics in time for Christmas with new GPS-tracking wrist-worn cellphones.
One is the $79 GizmoPal2, the successor to the GizmoPal launched last year at this time. The other is the GizmoGadget. Parents track the GPS-equipped wrist-worn phones via an Android or iOS device. From the wearable, kids make and receive calls by pressing a button, speaking into the device’s microphone, and listening through its speaker. The child can place a call to a primary or secondary caregiver and can receive calls from approved contacts.
The built-in GPS locator notifies caregivers in real time if the child strays from preset GPS boundaries that you set in the device.
The second-generation GizmoPal comes in pink or light blue and features multiple LED status lights that indicate if a call or message is coming in. The device also features voice recorder and IPX7 waterproof design, enabling it to be immersed in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. Interchangeable bands are available.
The larger $149 GizmoGadget offers many of the same features but adds a touchscreen display, ability to send pre-recorded messages and emojis from the 1.3-inch color touchscreen, and a pedometer and jump rope counter.
It accommodates up to 10 numbers and preset messages. The device is offered in red or dark blue with bands in optional colors. Different touchscreen themes can also be selected.
Both devices require a $5 monthly access fee that can be added and removed at any time to an existing Verizon plan.
