Xplora is one of the few tech brands to offer connected watches for children. They differ from smartwatches for adults by integrating reassuring security tools, without ignoring communications and physical activity monitoring.
What if children also benefited from a connected watch? This is the bet of Xplora, a Norwegian company that designs smartwatches designed primarily for children, but also for parents. The company thus offers connected watches that combine the useful with the pleasant for the little ones, while integrating a few safeguards necessary to ensure their safety.
The Xplora catalog is made up of two connected watches, at prices between 119.99 and 169.99 euros. The features differ, but the brand ensures that all of its products are perfectly suitable for children.
Designed for kids, managed by parents
Xplora’s connected watches are ultimately very similar to those for adults. They also have activity sensors and a connection to the mobile network thanks to a nano SIM. However, the manufacturer’s watches stand out above all for the possibilities they offer. With Xplora, children can get a foothold in the digital world with a device that offers uses suitable for young people.
For example, the activation of a connected watch can be done from an adult’s smartphone. Once the nano SIM card is in place, the child can then use their watch without needing a phone. From there, it is possible to call, send and receive SMS, but only to contacts authorized by the application (and therefore the parents). The Xplora watch is then transformed into a real communication tool that fits around the wrist, and which is an alternative to smartphones.
To protect your children, Xplora has integrated an SOS mode into its watches. A long press of the power button will automatically reach all emergency contacts until someone picks up. Geolocation is also shared with parents via the tracking mobile app.
Xplora also had the good idea of integrating a “school” mode into its devices. From the application, parents can determine time slots during which the watch will not be able to receive notifications or calls. The app store is also limited to essentials to reduce distractions.
Connected watch obliges, we find the most practical functionality of this type of device: the monitoring of physical activity. In addition, the XGO2 and X5 Play models have the particularity of integrating a camera. Something to introduce children to the art of photography.
GoPlay: the good idea to generate physical activity
To push our dear darlings to put their noses outside, Xplora had the good idea to reward physical activity. The sensors present in the connected watch indeed measure the number of steps taken daily. The more there are, the more children get Xplora Coins. A concept that allows children to find a balance between physical activity and screen time.
This virtual currency is then used for two things:
- play exclusive mini-games or buy children’s products at auction;
- but above all, actively participate in Xplora campaigns.
Among the most recent campaigns, that of UNICEF made it possible to distribute drinking water to children for whom it is difficult to obtain it. The equivalent of two bottles of water was then distributed against 1000 steps. A total of 10 million bottles of water were distributed through this campaign. We let you do the math to find out how many steps have been taken.
Xplora ensures that the data collected is stored on European servers. They are only analyzed to improve future GoPlay campaigns.
A technical sheet like that of adult watches
But what components are hidden behind Xplora watches? Well the same ones used in adult smartwatches. Xplora watches are equipped with dedicated processors from Qualcomm. This allows the watches to work with a modified version of the WearOS interface, the official Google interface that can be found on, for example, Samsung watches. It is suitable for use by children and incorporates a few safeguards for parents.
On the front, there is a 1.4 inch TFT screen depending on the model. This one is square and naturally offers a larger display area. On the activity monitoring side, Xplora watches are able to measure heart rate, sleep quality and the number of steps taken.
Above all, Xplora connected watches have been designed for use without a smartphone. Thus, the Xplora XGO2 and X5 Play are both equipped with microphones and speakers. This allows watch wearers to make calls or send voice messages.
Finally, all Xplora watch models are water and dust resistant. They are at least IP67 certified, which guarantees the proper functioning of the watch after immersion up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes.
Two models for all budgets
Xplora has two connected watches for children in its catalog.
The XGO2 at 119.99 euros
Here, Xplora offers a perfectly autonomous connected watch model. The XGO2 is capable of receiving a nano SIM and can therefore make calls and send messages without having a paired smartphone. A 0.3 megapixel sensor housed on the front even allows you to take photos.
The X5 Play at 169.99 euros
It is the most high-end model from Xplora. The X5 Play benefits from a more generous battery, increased waterproofing (IP68), but above all a better photo sensor. The latter has 2 megapixels and allows you to take better quality shots.
