clipped from: www.marketingcharts.com   

Cell Phones Used by 46% of US Tweens

Nearly half - 46% - of US “tweens” (those age 8-12) use a cell phone, and safety is the primary reason that parents cite for their childrens’ having a mobile phone, according to Nielsen’s newly launched Mobile Kids Insights survey.

The survey also estimates that US tweens - a population segment of 20 million - get their own cell phone between age 10 and 11, on average.

Some 55% of tweens who own a cell phone send text messages and 21% download ringtones, according to the study.

In terms of the role that parents play in tween cell phone use:

  • The top reason parents want tweens to have a cell phone: in case there is an emergency or problem.
  • 92% of parents restrict how tweens use their phone
  • 68% say they prohibit downloads (games, ringtones, etc.) that incur charges.
  • 65% of tweens with cell phones are on family plans.