As Prince George prepares to transition from primary school to secondary school this summer, turning 13 in July, his parents, Prince William and Kate Middleton, are considering easing one of their strict parenting rules: no cell phones. While speaking with Brazilian journalist Luciana Huck during a visit related to the Earthshot Prize, Prince William hinted at this potential change, stating that limited phone access might be granted once George enters secondary school.
This shift in policy reflects the practicalities of secondary education. Attending secondary schools like Eton (where his father was educated) often involves increased communication needs between students and parents throughout the day. A phone with restricted features—likely allowing for calls and text messages only—would address this while minimizing potential risks to George’s well-being.
Prince William emphasized that he maintains open conversations with George about the downsides of unrestricted phone usage, particularly the exposure to inappropriate content online. He suggested that limited access strikes a balance between necessary communication and safeguarding against potential harms.
This isn’t the first time Prince William has spoken openly about his family’s stance on technology for their children (George, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Louis, 7). In previous interviews, he’s stressed the importance of limiting screen time and prioritizing face-to-face interaction.
Kate Middleton shares this perspective. In a writing piece for the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, she highlighted the detrimental effects of excessive phone use on children’s development, arguing that constant connection can hinder essential social and emotional growth. She emphasizes that “the quality of our relationships matters more than anything else,” advocating for mindful presence during interactions with young children.
While the prospect of a phone raises questions about shifting boundaries within the Wales family, Prince William’s comments suggest an approach focused on measured introduction rather than outright concession. Given their strong emphasis on open communication and responsible technology use, any allowance for George’s phone access will likely come with ongoing parental guidance and clear guidelines.
