Next to marketing the kids, Disney has put its focus on localizing them too. Now parents will be able to see where their kids are, who they’ve been talking to and for how long. Using this technology in reverse, parents can now text/call their children with the following message: “I know you’re going to pass the ‘x’ supermarket in 15 seconds, bring home some milk, or you won’t have any in the morning.” – The Disney alert system could then be used to inform kids about stores in the nearby neighborhood and about lovely new toys that are for sale there. “Your mom would surely be pleased if you bring this new movie home that’s for sale in our store a block away from where you’re now.” (that last bit isn’t true yet)
Disney is launching a US service that will enable parents to monitor how their children use their mobile phones. They will be able to track voice, text, video and picture messages and set limits on their children’s calls.
The phone will also allow parents to locate where their children are via a global positioning system.
Disney is targeting 20 to 30 million children with the new service. While the US mobile phone market is well established with 70% of the population already owning a phone, this figure is lower among teenagers.
About 45% to 50% of 13 year olds have a mobile phone, according to technology analysts Jupiter Research.
The new phones for parents, which will be sold over the internet, are expected to be available from June.
Disney has not yet revealed what it will charge for this service, but monthly fees from other providers are as little as $10 per month for each new family member.