With the rise of foldable phones, we have seen a spike in popularity for old flip phones with UK children.
According to a 2022 report from International Data Corporation, they witnessed worldwide shipments of foldable phones, inclusive of both flip and fold form factors, reach a total of 7.1 million units in 2021. This represents an increase of 264.3% over the 1.9 million units shipped in 2020
With the hefty price tag attached to new foldable and flip phones for kids, many children are going retro and asking for an old flip phone – they may look cool, but this raises a few questions for their parents.
Can you still get SIM cards for old phones?
Yes. ParentShield SIM cards fit ANY unlocked mobile phone as they are a Tri-Cut Universal Type SIM and are 2G, 3G and 4G compatible, and 5G ready, so there’s never a worry.
What size SIM card do I need for an old phone?
A ParentShield SIM Card will always be a Tri-Cut Universal Type SIM. The plastic surround to the actual SIM chip has been pre-cut to allow it to press out to each of the three sizes. This means you don’t have to worry about SIM Sizes.
The general rule of thumb is that the newer the phone the smaller the SIM, so really old flip phones will almost certainly be the Mini size ( the biggest )
In any case we have you covered, but for more information see our SIM size guide
Will ParentShield work with an old phone?
Yes. ParentShield’s network, recording and controls will work in ANY unlocked mobile phone, no matter how new, or in this case how very old, the phone is. They are 2G, 3G, 4G compatible and 5G ready.
Can I locate my child’s phone if it’s an old phone?
No. Phone location requires the phones built-in GPS, so old flip phones won’t have that capability. In the event of a missing child there is of course cell tower triangulation, but for every day use, such as the ‘Find My Phone’ services, it is not compatible.
What if my child wants to change to a smartphone?
That’s perfectly fine. Our SIM card can easily be transferred to a replacement phone and none of the ParentShield settings will be affected, simply push it out to the smallest size.
If you can keep hold of the surrounding ‘SIM Rind’, you can even re-assemble the SIM at a future date should your Child switch back.