A mobile startup called Firefly Mobile today announced plans to market a cell phone to children. The Firefly Mobile Phone is targeted at kids 8-12 years old. The device itself is smaller than most mobile phones, to accompany kids' smaller hands.
The phone is voice only (no text messaging or data) and has a mom and dad speed dial key. Parents must set all of the phonebook contents, editing is blocked by a PIN.
In July, Firefly phones with a Firefly branded, pre-paid calling plan will be available through Target stores nationwide. The backend for the MVNO used through Target will be Cingular Wireless.