The rapid advance of technology poses unique challenges for parents of teens, balancing the need for digital interaction with safety concerns. Finnish phone manufacturer HMD has introduced the Fusion X1, aimed at providing families with tools to navigate this delicate balance. Officially launched at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 at Camp Nou Stadium, Barcelona, this innovative device promises to be more than just another smartphone—it's pitched as the next step toward safer digital engagement for children and teens.
Designed to facilitate parental oversight without overwhelming children, the Fusion X1 was developed through collaborative efforts with Xplora, which has made its name producing kid-friendly smartwatches. The phone allows teens to request permission from their parents when downloading apps from the Google Play Store. At the same time, parents retain full control, monitoring app access, setting screen time limits, and tracking location through a companion app. Unlike other devices where parental controls can be easily bypassed, the Fusion X1 integrates these features deeply within its Android operating system, creating what HMD describes as a 'locked-down safe space'.
Adam Ferguson, HMD's Global Head of Product, expressed the importance of this device, stating, "The idea is to provide a device which is a stepping stone." He elaborated on how parental management could eventually transition to automated settings as kids mature, allowing for gradual independence. This concept struck a chord with many at the event, including Drew Barrymore, the actor and talk show host, who spoke passionately about the necessity for safe boundaries as children engage with technology.
"What is right for me may not be right for you," Barrymore stated, emphasizing her personal experience growing up without adequate safeguards from the many online dangers children face today. She voiced her admiration for HMD’s mission, remarking, "This is very personal for me; this is a very emotional experience." Barrymore's endorsement signifies the growing recognition among parents of the need for careful and responsible tech practices during adolescence.
HMD's Better Phones Project, which involved feedback from 25,000 teens and parents, found surprising insights. Contrary to the assumption many parents have, the survey revealed not only did kids desire some level of restrictions on technology use, but they also recognized the importance of adult supervision. For example, over 50% of participants admitted to encountering strangers online, reflecting the real risks teens face and their acknowledgment of needing guidance.
James Robinson, HMD’s SVP Americas, pointed out the developmental phases children experience as they begin to use technology. Initially, children between 8 and 12 start establishing healthy habits, followed by 13 to 16-year-olds who may be more inclined to use feature phones but are not yet ready for unrestricted access. Lastly, older teens transition toward more adult-like digital environments. The Fusion X1 is crafted as flexible enough to suit all these age groups, echoing the sentiments from both parents and kids.
Robinson remarked on the unique challenges families face when introducing children to digital technology, saying, "It's likely tots and parents everywhere will have complex concerns from screen time to safety as they navigate technology together." He underscored the importance of families proactively addressing these feelings, using the Fusion X1 as a potential solution to create healthy digital habits.
Set to hit the market later this May with a price tag of £229 (approximately $290), the Fusion X1 has already generated significant anticipation and interest. Its preordering availability reflects the growing urgency from parents who recognize the need for trusted devices for their teens.
The Fusion X1 offers families flexibility and control, allowing for safe engagement with the digital world. The innovation behind this phone marks it as not just another technology product, but as part of supporting kids on their path to becoming responsible digital citizens. With the convergence of parents' insights and children’s preferences, it is becoming clear how important it is for families to work hand-in-hand to support young people's digital journeys. This balance of freedom and supervision is likely the future of technology use for the next generation.