What is the Walkie Talkie App? Is it Safe for Kids?

The trill of a walkie-talkie is a sound we may have thought we were past. For the most part, families and kids aren’t using walkie-talkies to connect. But you may have recently heard that nostalgic noise in your home, coming from your child’s phone. 

Walkie-talkie apps are gaining popularity among kids because they allow kids to communicate anonymously with people around the world. 

Most of these walkie-talkie apps operate the same way, so what we cover below applies to most even though we’ll focus on the Walkie Talkie app, a popular choice for real time communication. 

So let’s chat: what is Walkie Talkie, and is it safe for kids? 

What is Walkie Talkie?

The Walkie Talkie app is a digital tool that allows users to communicate instantly, similar to a traditional walkie talkie. It doesn’t use radio frequencies and can’t be considered a radio app. Rather, using an internet connection, this app enables users to send voice messages with a simple “push to talk” feature. 

The draw of Walkie Talkie is that it’s anonymous. Users give themselves unique usernames and create avatars to hide their identity. While connecting in private channels with friends is possible, many others would rather just enter into anonymous public chat rooms with strangers and chat in real time. (Think Omegle, but without video.)

Is the Walkie Talkie App Safe for Kids?

No, the Walkie Talkie app is not safe for kids. The app is rated 12+, and the app requires age verification upon creating an account. However, verification can easily be bypassed by signing up with a fake birthdate. 

The ability to connect with strangers globally through public channels can pose risks. Conversations in these channels are not always monitored, potentially exposing children to inappropriate content or interactions.

Reporting features are available, but many users commonly swear on the app. Even if one person is reported for using inappropriate language, that won’t deter others from swearing.

The app also allows users to private message with one another, opening up the possibility for grooming and predation. 

To enhance safety, some apps offer features that let users create private channels. These channels provide a controlled environment where children can communicate with friends and family without the risk of encountering strangers. 

Despite these measures, it’s crucial for parents to stay involved and set guidelines for their children’s app usage.

In-App Purchases

Walkie Talkie is not a cheap app — it costs $7.99/week to use. They also offer avatar customizations for purchase that kids may buy without realizing what they’re doing.

Making Friends Safely

The draw of Walkie Talkie may be that it can cure boredom and help kids make friends. Helping children make friends safely online and in person is important, but there are better ways to do it than giving access to Walkie Talkie.

Instead, consider taking proactive steps to help your kids build this crucial skillset:

1. Educate About Online Safety: Discuss the importance of privacy and the need to avoid sharing personal information with strangers. Explain the difference between public and private channels and monitor their use of these features on any platform they use that includes them.
2. Encourage Responsible Usage: Set time limits for app usage and ensure that communication is restricted to known and trusted contacts. Discuss the implications of interacting with unknown individuals and establish clear rules about online communication.
3. Promote Offline Interactions: Encourage children to build friendships offline as well. Facilitate playdates, encourage participation in group activities, and support hobbies that involve social interaction. This balance helps children develop interpersonal skills and reduces reliance on digital communication.
4. Stay Involved: Regularly check in with your children about their online interactions. Encourage open conversations about any concerns or uncomfortable situations they might face. Being approachable will help them feel safe to share their experiences.
5. Use Parental Controls: Know the dangers of apps or games you allow your kids to access and use available parental control features to limit exposure to unwanted content. Setting up these controls can help manage the risks associated with public channel communication.

Kids shouldn’t have to seek out risky interactions with strangers to feel connected. It can feel like a lot of work to keep your kids safe online as they mature toward adulthood but good tools now exist. Kid-safe devices connect kids to their friends and families while limiting their contact with strangers. 

What do you think about walkie-talkie apps? How will you handle them in your home? What tips do you have for other parents? Let us know in the comments!

Author Morgan Dye

Morgan is a Gabb staff writer. She joined Gabb because she is dedicated to keeping children safe online. She loves watercolor and is an accomplished actress who can be found acting in her local theater productions.