What’s happened? HMD Global, the smartphone maker, has unveiled an innovative device aimed at safeguarding children from inappropriate online content. The new HMD Fuse smartphone features a cutting-edge AI tool named HarmBlock+ that proactively blocks nude images and prevents kids from sending risky content.
- The HMD Fuse is equipped with the HarmBlock+ feature.
- This AI-driven technology helps ensure children cannot film or share nude images while also filtering out explicit content across all applications.
- HarmBlock+ functions within the phone’s camera and is capable of blocking inappropriate content in real-time, even during livestreams.
- Parents gain control through built-in parental settings, allowing them to manage usage and unlock features as their children mature.
- This isn’t HMD’s first venture into child-safe phones; earlier this year, they launched the Fusion X1.
This is important because: A recent survey by Vodafone reveals that one in five high school students (ages 11-17) has felt pressured to share explicit images.
- Moreover, 46% of parents are concerned about their children receiving such content.
- The HarmBlock AI was developed in collaboration with SafeToNet, a security firm specializing in online safety.
- This AI model has been ethically pre-trained using 22 million explicit images to improve its filtering accuracy.
- HMD asserts that this is the first prevention tool designed specifically so children cannot circumvent its protective measures.
Why should you care? If you’re a parent worried about what your child might encounter on their smartphone, the HMD Fuse provides exceptional safety features underserved by other models, including anticipated releases from major brands like Google and Apple.
- The Fuse includes features to limit app access and screen time.
- It offers location tracking every 24 seconds, allowing parents to create safe zones with notifications when children enter or exit those areas.
- The device defaults to blocking access to social media and internet applications.
- HMD designed the Fuse to adapt as children grow, enabling parents to restrict initial access to calls, texts, and location before gradually unlocking additional features.
What’s next? Currently, the HMD Fuse is available exclusively in the UK through Vodafone, at a rate of £33 per month (approximately €39), along with a one-time upfront cost of £30 (about €35).
- HMD has announced plans to introduce the Fuse in other nations, starting with Australia.
- As of now, there’s no information regarding availability in the USA.
- We reached out to HMD for confirmation about a US launch, but a spokesperson only indicated the ongoing expansion to Australia and New Zealand.
Are you curious about child safety features in smartphones? With such advancements in mobile technology, considering how to protect your kids online has never been more essential. If safety in digital spaces is important to you, keep exploring related articles and discussions at Moyens I/O.