It’s only natural for kids to want their own phones these days, but we get why handing over a regular smartphone with full internet access can feel like a hard nope for most parents. Arguing with Gen Alpha about it is losing a battle, so you need something that gives them the freedom they’re asking for in a safe, controlled environment.

The Bark Phone, which looks like a regular phone on the outside, does exactly that. It’s built with safety in mind, and right now, there’s a great back-to-school deal that makes it a bit easier on the wallet. The phone normally retails for $10 per month for 24 months, with plans starting at $29 per month. Currently, using the code CLASS30 at checkout gets you $30 off your first month, which means you’ll only pay $9 plus taxes to get started.

The phone itself is a Samsung Galaxy A16, which comes preloaded with parental controls according to the plan you choose. The starter plan starts at $29 a month and includes unlimited talk and text with no internet access or games — ideal for younger kids. No more stranger danger, since you’re also able to approve or deny every contact.

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Advanced plans let kids gradually access more features while also keeping you in the loop. For instance, children can request any apps in the Google Play Store for you to approve. You are still able to monitor, set limits, and remove previously approved content.

The phone actively scans all data and also looks for social media red flags like adult content, harassment and bullying. If it spots anything suspicious, you’re notified immediately.

Why this deal matters

Bark Phone offers a great way to let your children access technology while also prioritizing their safety. This deal takes $30 off your first month, which means you can get started for just $9. Note that deals like this are usually short-lived, so if this interests you, hurry while you can.

At CES 2024, I went hands-on with the then-yet-to-launch Torras Coolify Cyber and I could only imagine how useful it could be in the Delhi summers. Fast-forward to more than a year later and I’ve used the wearable air conditioner more times than I can count. It has become one of my favorite gadgets to beat the heat. 

This wearable neck fan normally goes for $300 but right now it’s available for $222 on Amazon — a 26% discount.

The Torras Coolify Cyber is a portable air conditioner worn on the neck. When I first used it, I was impressed by the comfort and air pressure but had doubts about how it would do in the long run and if it would overheat from prolonged use. I’m happy to report that I’ve been positively surprised and would carry it when traveling to hot, humid places. 

It features an ergonomic design with a ceramic cooling plate on the part that touches your neck. It’s immensely useful alongside the fan vents on hot days. The device didn’t feel uncomfortable to wear. I could have it on for at least an hour at a stretch. You can also press and hold a button on the collar to switch to warm air for cold-weather conditions. You can choose from three fan settings for airflow and three temperature modes — heat, fan and cool — for the kind of air you need. It’s an all-year gadget.

Portable, comfortable and easy to use

I live in Delhi, where the temperature can cross 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit). In that heat, when you’re indoors, your only relief is an air conditioner but when I’m outside, the Torras Coolify Cyber is my go-to gadget. I could forget my phone but not this portable air conditioner. It can get sweaty and uncomfortable when you’re active under the sun but the constant cold airflow makes it manageable. 

The Torras wearable AC is a must-have for anyone who gets uncomfortable with the weather outside and needs some relief from the ambient air. And with this limited-time deal bringing the price down to $222, now’s a good time to give it a try.