⏳ Are you in a hurry? Then here’s your short Bark Phone Reviews snapshot
Name: Bark Phone
Description: The Bark Phone is a sleek, cutting-edge mobile device designed for seamless communication. With crystal-clear calls, lightning-fast texts, and intuitive interface, it keeps you connected effortlessly. Advanced entertainment features, robust security, and top-notch camera make it a versatile companion. It's not just a phone; it's your modern lifestyle companion.
Offer price: 6.0
Currency: $
Personal Summary Conclusion
After spending many hours using BarkPhone, I can easily say this phone is the best I have ever used. The seamless user interface, lightning-fast performance, and exceptional camera quality truly set it apart from other smartphones on the market. The battery life is also impressive, lasting me a full day of heavy usage without needing a recharge. Overall, the BarkPhone has exceeded my expectations and I would highly recommend it to anyone in need of a reliable and high-performing device for their children.
- 🎛️ Complete Control: Texts, emails, and social media? Bark Phone has it under surveillance.
- 📱 Wide Compatibility: For now, it's an Android thing. Sorry, Apple aficionados.
- ⏰ Time Management: Yep! Set boundaries on screen time.
- 🚫 Content Filtering: Filters out the stuff you don't want junior to see.
- 🕵️ Usage Tracking: Keep tabs on app use and web visits.
- 🌙 Bedtime: Ahh, bedtime controls for that beauty sleep.
- 💤 Pause the Internet: Pull the plug anytime you want.
- 💼 Safe Search: Kid-friendly searches are the rule.
- 🔐 Privacy Focused: Takes data privacy seriously. Your info's in Fort Knox.
- 👥 Profile Customization: Unique settings for each family member.
- 📞 Customer Support: Got a problem? Support's just a chat or call away.
- 💵 Flexible Pricing: Offers both monthly and yearly options.
- 🆓 Free Trial: Try before you leap. A free trial's available.
- 🎉 Promotional Deals: Keep an eye out here. Deals drop like it's hot!
Overall
4.3- Features and Functionality
- Ease of Use
- Performance & Reliability
- Compatibility
- Privacy & Security
- Customization Options
- Customer Support
- Value for Money
Pros
- Bark provides robust content filtering, helping to shield children from inappropriate websites and content, promoting a safer online environment.
- The software tracks social media interactions, alerting parents to potential cyberbullying, online predators, or harmful activities.
- Instant notifications enable parents to respond promptly to concerning online behavior, fostering open communication and addressing issues as they arise.
Cons
- Monitoring can infringe on a child's privacy, leading to trust issues and potential resentment, especially as they grow older.
Introduction to Bark Phone
With the increasing concern surrounding children's potential exposure to online predators, cyberbullying, and explicit content, it is understandable that individuals may think twice when considering parental control strategies. However, there is no need for concern.
Although reading every text message sent by one's children may not be feasible, this app offers admirable scanning and security functionalities. Indeed, Bark currently stands as one of the most exemplary applications available.
Bark is a monitoring application that gained popularity for its effectiveness in safeguarding the well-being of approximately 6 million children in domestic settings and over 3,100 educational institutions across the United States.
Bark is widely recognized as the primary application for implementing parental controls on children's devices, and the Bark Phone represents its first comprehensive offering in this field. Instead of supporting parental surveillance of their children's online activities, Bark promotes conversation between parents and children to enhance digital literacy. Here is a comprehensive Bark phone review.
An Overview of the Bark Phone
The Bark Phone was introduced in the autumn of 2022 as another addition to the company's existing product line. Bark is accessible in Guam, the United States, South Africa, and Australia. The Bark Phone is a Samsung A13 Android smartphone.
The phone possesses all the essential features for a child, including a high-resolution camera, sufficient storage capacity for application downloads, and a discrete appearance that does not resemble a monitored device. The phone operates through the Bark Premium application, renowned as one of the initial parental control tools designed to oversee social media activities and prioritize the well-being and security of teens.
Barkphone has integrated parental controls, including a comprehensive web filtering system, location tracking functionality, social media monitoring capabilities, screen time limitations, and additional features. Compared to the conventional Bark Phone application, this alternative offers enhanced ease of setup, upgraded functionality, and the ability to prevent any attempts to uninstall the application effectively.
Features and Functionalities
The Bark Premium app has the following features:
Social Media Monitoring Feature of Bark Phone
Bark facilitates integrating social media platforms, email providers, and SMS messaging applications on mobile devices, including more than 30 such networks. The system analyzes textual and visual elements to identify potentially hazardous, detrimental, or unsuitable content, including cyberbullying, violence, self-inflicted harm, substance abuse, and other related categories. If activated, the filter captures screenshots and sends them to the designated parental dashboard.
What is the scope of Bark app monitoring? Below, we provide all the applications that can be monitored on both iOS and Android platforms. The following digital platforms are commonly utilized for various purposes: BIGO LIVE, Facebook, Dropbox, Flickr, Google Drive, Kik, GroupMe, Instagram, OneDrive, LiveMe, Pinterest, Slack, Reddit, Spotify, WhatsApp, Tumblr, and YouTube.
The Android operating system offers the screening of some additional applications. These applications are only available for Android devices: Discord, Houseparty, HOLLA, Lipsi, Skype, Facebook Messenger Kids, Snapchat, TikTok, Steam, and VSCO.
Web Filter Feature of Bark Phone
The web filter uses artificial intelligence to scan and classify each website before its immediate accessibility. The algorithm used by the system examines various elements such as text content, metadata, images, advertisements, and other relevant factors to determine the appropriateness of the webpage. Ability to activate or restrict access to various web categories and gather a list of URLs deemed unsuitable for your kid to access.
Bark effectively monitors and filters content within a comprehensive range of 18 distinct categories, including the following areas:
- Cyberbullying
- Anxiety and depression
- Drug/alcohol-related content
- Body image
- Hate speech and profanity
- Sexual content
- Self-harm and suicidal content
- Violence and weapons
Set Screen Time Routines Feature of Bark Phone
Create a daily schedule for screen time allocation. Furthermore, determine the specific time intervals during which your child can utilize his mobile device and control the types of applications and categories of websites accessible to him at different times throughout the day. For example, it is possible to restrict access to social media applications during school hours, permit music applications at night, and assign a designated period of one to two hours per day for unrestricted access.
Request a Location Check-In Feature of Bark Phone
The Bark app features a Check-In button that your kid can access and utilize. The application sends the individual's real-time geographic locations, a convenient hyperlink for accessing navigational instructions. Bark phone monitoring of the location of older children or teenagers who engage in independent activities can prove advantageous.
The Bark parental control provides features such as location check-ins and alerts to assist users. The application provides real-time notifications regarding the arrival or departure of a child from a designated geographical area. If one seeks peace, this particular feature may provide the necessary comfort.
Detailed Reporting Feature of Bark Phone
The parental dashboard lets users access a comprehensive overview of their child's phone activities, including website visits, app usage, and total screen time. It can be accessed conveniently from either a mobile device or a computer. The “alerts” section is a centralized hub for various alerts, offering a convenient feature. There is no need to examine each section individually to find the alerts activated due to the check-in, filter, or social media activity.
Ease of Use
The Bark platform exhibits a user-friendly interface; however, it is essential to note that the proper configuration of parental controls on Bark requires a significant time investment. Fortunately, installing the software is straightforward and efficient, requiring only a single synchronization of your children's accounts. The website exhibits an intuitive design and offers an extensive selection of excellent resources that are easily accessible.
The desktop application developed by Bark exhibits a high degree of user-friendliness and consistency. Synchronizing all your children's devices, social media accounts, and applications necessitates a particular time, typically one to two hours, depending on the number of individuals residing in your household. The customer support provided is commendable; however, it is necessary to make prior schedules for a phone call with a representative.
Setup Process
One advantage of getting the Bark Phone is the absence of installation requirements. Bark Premium is preinstalled on the phone, requiring only the device's activation and subsequent login to the user's registered account upon purchase.
The following is a comprehensive, sequential procedure for installing Bark on a Windows PC:
Select a Bark subscription plan. One must decide between Bark Jr. and Bark Premium when considering the options.
Register for your Bark account. Provide your email address and select a password.
Sign up form on the Bark website.
Choose the frequency of your billing cycle and provide your payment information for submission. If the user has chosen to utilize the 7-day free trial, Bark will only initiate the charging process once the trial period has finished.
Provide the year of birth for your child. It aims to enable Bark to enhance the default settings for optimal performance.
Fill out the form to create a profile for your child using Bark.
The welcome page of Bark will ask you a series of questions about the aspects of your child's online activities that worry you the most.
To synchronize your child's social media accounts, click the option labeled “Connect [Child's] apps and devices.”
For iOS devices, a notification will be received indicating that the setup process may require additional time.
The synchronization process may take some time to complete. However, once your child's device and apps have been successfully connected, the parental controls will become immediately effective.
Software Performance
The Bark phone application effectively identifies potentially troubling content and promptly alerts parents. The Bark Phone has demonstrated excellent battery durability, consistently lasting an entire day without encountering any notable difficulties. However, it is essential to acknowledge that the efficacy of monitoring applications may differ based on various factors, such as the compatibility of the device, the strength of the internet connection, and the specific settings chosen by the user.
Compatibility
The compatibility of the Bark parental control app is a noteworthy characteristic that exhibits variations across different platforms such as Android, iOS, laptops, gaming consoles, tablets, smart televisions, Amazon Fire Kindles, and Chromebooks. Although this surveillance application is compatible with both operating systems, the installation process is more challenging for iPhone devices due to the requirement of contacting Apple and seeking their assistance.
In the case of Android, the installation procedure is relatively straightforward. Therefore, encountering difficulties should not be possible if your child utilizes an Android device. Bark exhibits compatibility with a diverse range of over 30 widely-used social media and chat applications that are popular among teenage users.
Bark Phone Price and Subscription Plans
Bark Phone is the real deal for parents wanting to keep tabs on their kiddos' mobile activities. Let's break down the nitty-gritty of its pricing.
Plans Overview:
Bark Phone is pretty straightforward with its pricing. One all-inclusive plan covers it all, from comprehensive monitoring to web filtering.
Initial Vs. Renewal Rates:
Refreshing honesty alert: What you see is what you get. No tricky low introductory rates that jump up at renewal time. You pay the same, year in, year out.
Comparison to Industry Standard:
Let's zoom out for a sec. Bark Phone's singular plan pricing might seem steep, but considering it's like having a private detective and a security guard rolled into one? Worth it.
Additional Costs:
No extra costs or hidden fees are sneaking around the corner. The plan is all-inclusive, and there's no upsell drama.
Payment Options:
Choices, choices! You can whip out your credit card, debit card, or even PayPal.
Contract Terms:
No need to break out in commitment sweats. It's a pay-as-you-go model, with options to opt-out whenever you want.
Free Trial:
Bark Phone offers a 7-day free trial. A full week to play detective and decide if it's right for you.
Refund Policy and Money-Back Guarantee:
Here's the kicker: they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. So if you're not head-over-heels in love with their service, you can bail without losing your cash.
Promotional Deals or Discounts:
While not a constant, Bark Phone does roll out promotional deals, especially during holidays. So, stalk them during those times to get a bargain.
Customer Support & Resources
How Responsive and Helpful Are They?
In terms of response time, it was well over 36 hours, it took a solid 3 days to get things going in the right direction, and after that much time, I was able to get my answer.
Overall I am not satisfied with the client service. Staff could be better and well trained.
What Resources Are Available?
According to my Bark phone review, Different channels exist to obtain assistance for the Bark phone platform. Only one option for direct assistance, namely a support portal that can attach a file to provide further clarification regarding the issue at hand. There is no alternative method of communication, such as chat, direct phone calls, or direct email.
The available options for the self-help support area were restricted. One resource is a broad FAQ section, which includes articles that address a wide range of topics. Additionally, there is the blog option, and upon conducting a more thorough examination, it became evident that it has up-to-date material.
Privacy and Security
According to my Bark phone review, It is imperative to make clear that Bark for Phones does not misuse user data and demonstrates a genuine concern for safeguarding individual privacy. Indeed, Bark surpasses the minimum legal obligations in protecting individuals' personal information. In addition, multiple layers of security have been implemented to prevent unauthorized access by hackers.
Bark encrypts all its servers, databases, and web browser sessions. The data is subject to automatic removal within 30 days, although submitting a request for expedited removal is possible. The bark undergoes regular audits.
According to the privacy policy of the Bark app, the measures implemented to ensure the security of user data are outlined as follows:
The sharing of data with third parties is dependent upon obtaining consent. The bark platform meets FERPA, COPPA, CIPA, SOC 2 Type II, and AB 1584 compliance standards. Encrypting servers, databases, and web browser sessions ensures that unauthorized individuals cannot gain access to one's data, thereby safeguarding against online criminal activities.
Bark mandates that its employees adhere to security protocols encompassing hard-disk encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular software updates. Bark employs TLS encryption and second-layer security measures provided by Amazon Web Services.
Additionally, it incorporates user-specific access keys. The company conducts training sessions and internal security audits regularly. One commendable aspect of Bark is its commitment to delivering only essential information deemed necessary for users. This measure guarantees a certain level of protection for your children's privacy.
Limitations and Drawbacks
According to my Bark phone review, Here are some limitations and drawbacks of Bark Phone:
- Adding a Google account supervised by Google Family Link is impossible if the child already possesses one. Consequently, it becomes necessary to establish a different Google account specifically for utilization with the phone.
- The comprehensive collection of applications offered on the Google Play Store requires independent research to verify the security of specific apps the child seeks.
- One notable drawback is the limited availability of pre-vetted applications, which sets it apart from other devices that prioritize the safety of children by ensuring the integrity of the apps they offer.
- The app needs thorough information regarding potential solutions, which poses difficulties in assessing the child's abilities and making informed decisions regarding permissions.
- The user expresses dissatisfaction with the user interface of the admin app of iOS devices, noting its need for more user-friendliness in terms of navigating settings and returning to specific screens.
- Understanding diverse settings and modes can present difficulties, meaning a necessity for enhancements in the user interface.
User Bark Phone Reviews and Testimonials
BarkPhone Trustpilot Review
According Bark phone reviews on TrustPilot, most of the customers experience glitches while using the phone. Some also state that there was a significant lack of features in the app and it looked nothing like what was promised in the advertisement. A user was also concerned about his kid's data being stolen. Some users were not satisfied with the interface and some found it very difficult to set the app. A few saw the Bark phones motive as very beneficial for parental control but also requested some improvements from the developer.
BarkPhone Reddit Review
The Reddit reviews of Barkphone were almost similar to Trustpilot. Users were experiencing some lags while using the app and a few were very unpleased with the refund policy. However, some users were very grateful for the timely alerts of inappropriate content searches.
Conclusion and Personal Recommendations
The Bark phone review must be enough for your understanding for now. This is an excellent choice for parents peace of mind, mainly when their child is willing to dip into social media. This is because alternative safe phone options for children cannot provide such functionality. However, if individuals need to prepare for using social media, getting this device and implementing stringent security measures as desired remains feasible.
While the hardware of the Bark Phone may not be distinctive, the approach of Bark to protect your children and its purchase methods set it apart. My son has enjoyed utilizing the telephone and appreciating the extent of freedom it can provide. It is imperative to acknowledge that there may be variations in individual preferences and experiences.
Therefore, it is advisable to conduct comprehensive research and carefully evaluate every aspect of the Bark Phone, including its features, pricing, and limitations, before deciding. The Bark Phone review provides essential information that can assist in making an informed decision (that grows with your child) regarding the purchase of this phone.
Personal Experience
The real-life experience of Bark phone was pretty great for me. As my son has a habit of sneaking out of school, Bark phone proved to help provide timely notifications of my son's out-of-zone location. Moreover, Tapping around the dashboard and setting the period for usage is also smooth and snappy
I particularly like the 18-category web filtering that allows me to block a broader range of websites such as adult and abuse.
Moreover, often monitoring WhatsApp and another instant messaging app that my daughter uses gives me mental peace because I can see whatever she is dealing with anytime anywhere
So, as a whole, my experience with Bark Phone was much better than any other parental control software I used so far
What is Bark Phone best used for?
Bark Phone parental control is an optimal solution for surveilling teens and tweens on online sites, as it maintains a balance between maintaining their privacy and ensuring appropriate monitoring. Bark utilizes sophisticated artificial intelligence technology to detect and identify potential hazards such as cyberbullying and explicit content, offering timely notifications to parents.
What is Bark Phone not best used for?
According to my Bark phone review, the Bark phone may not be optimal for parents who prioritize minimal alerts, as it produces many notifications owing to its comprehensive monitoring functionalities. Furthermore, this product may not be best for parents who predominantly utilize iOS devices, as it can present difficulties in configuration and functionality on these platforms.
Moreover, in cases where parents actively pursue explicit restrictions on content filtering or parental control, Bark may not align with their particular needs. Finally, the Bark phone may not be viable for individuals who are conscious of their budget, as it is more expensive than other alternatives.
Bark Phone Alternatives
Here is a comparison table of Bark phone alternatives:
| Rank | Software | Key Features | Pricing | My View | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.🥇 | Qustodio | Time scheduling, Content filtering, Social monitoring | $49.46/year for 5 devices Check Pricing | Best for Comprehensive Monitoring | Try For Free | Full Qustodio Review |
| 2.🥈 | Kaspersky Safe Kids | App management, Real-time alerts, GPS tracking | $14.99/year for 500 devices Check Pricing | Best for Budget-Friendly Option | Try For Free | Full Kaspersky Safe Kids Review |
| 3.🥉 | Norton Family | Web monitoring, Time limits, Location tracking | $49.99/year for unlimited devices Check Pricing | Best for Multi-Device Families | Try For Free | Full Norton Family Review Review |
| 4 | Net Nanny | Real-time alerts, Profanity masking, Screen time management | $39.99/year for 1 device Check Pricing | Best for Profanity Monitoring | Try For Free | Full NetNanny Review Review |
| 5 | Bark | Text monitoring, Email monitoring, Social media monitoring | $9/month or $99/year for unlimited devices Check Pricing | Best for Social Media & Email Monitoring | Try For Free | |
| 6 | Mobicip | Internet filter, App blocker, Screen time limit | $49.99/year for 5 devices Check Pricing | Best for Content Filtering | Try For Free | Full Mobicip Review Review |
| 7 | OurPact | Screen time management, App blocking, Family locator | Free to $6.99/month for 20 devices Check Pricing | Best for Screen Time Management | Try For Free | Full OurPact Review |
| 8 | FamilyTime | Location tracking, Geofencing, Time limits | $27/year for 1 device Check Pricing | Best for Location Tracking | Try For Free | Full Family Time App Review |
| 9 | MMGuardian | Call & SMS monitoring, Screen time management, App control | $3.99/month or $34.99/year for 1 device Check Pricing | Best for Call & Text Monitoring | Try For Free | |
| 10 | Screen Time | Time control, App control, Reward system | $6.99/month for 5 devices Check Pricing | Best for Time Management | Try For Free |
Final Word
Bark Phone is a very compelling software to offer to monitor, but which version you want depends on requirements. If you have young children then the Bark Phone Jr. is best for you. However, if you have an extensive requirement to monitor younger kids go for the premium package. Remember to make a final purchase after thoroughly understanding the Bark Phone's features and the plan that suits you.
FAQs
Is Bark Phone free?
The Bark Phone does not offer a free version as it is bundled with the phone, a wireless provider, and a data package. However, individuals who wish to evaluate the Bark Premium application without incurring any costs before making a purchase can avail themselves of a free 7-day trial. During this trial period, it is possible to install the parental control application on either the child's existing mobile device or the parent's device if the child does not possess one.
Can I set screen time limits on the Bark Phone?
Yes! Creating a comprehensive daily or weekly timetable is feasible to define the specific periods during which kids may use mobile devices. The screen time tool has four customizable options: school, sleep, free time, and default. Users can personalize the selection of apps and websites that are accessible for each specific situation. For instance, it is possible to restrict access to solely school-related or educational apps during school hours while allowing the music app to be unblocked during designated sleep periods.
Can my child remove Bark from the Bark Phone?
The Barkphone has been incorporated into the device's operating system. It implies that even during a factory reset by the child, Bark will persistently remain installed on the mobile device. Moreover, Bark effectively ensured the device's security by safeguarding it against all recognized methods of bypassing and hacking, preventing your child from circumventing the established rules.
What is the difference between the Bark app and the Bark Phone?
The Bark Phone is an advanced parental control tool that incorporates all the features of Bark Premium within a Samsung A13 smartphone. Furthermore, the Bark application offers distinct functionalities that are not accessible through other means, including precise location tracking, call-blocking capabilities, and automated text and social media communication monitoring.
Is a Bark Phone Worth It?
Absolutely, if you're all about monitoring. Bark Phone specializes in keeping an eye on texts, emails, and even 30+ social media platforms. If you're concerned about cyberbullying or risky behavior online, this tool is a heavyweight champ. So yes, the peace of mind it offers makes it worth the investment.
What Is the Downside of Bark App?
Ah, no rose without a thorn, right? While Bark is a powerhouse for monitoring, it doesn't offer robust web filtering or screen-time management features. That means if you want to block specific sites or control how long your child is online, you'll need another solution.
Can Bark See Everything on Your Phone?
You could say it's got a pretty good eagle-eye, but not X-ray vision. Bark scans texts, photos, emails, and social media for concerning interactions but won't have access to information within encrypted apps unless those platforms are supported by Bark. So, it's vigilant, but not all-seeing.
What Network Does the Bark Phone Use?
The Bark Phone is actually a software, not a phone service, so it doesn't have its own network. It works with your existing phone service provider, whether that's AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, or another. Just install the app and sync it with your kid's phone, and you're good to go.
Hope these FAQs help in making your Bark Phone review a one-stop resource for parents seeking to make an informed decision. Knowledge is power, and in this case, it's also peace of mind.
That's All For Now;
We appreciate you taking the time to read our in-depth Bark Phone Review. We understand your concern about the safety of your digital life, and we hope the information we've provided has been helpful. We invite you to return for additional cybersecurity software news and evaluations to stay ahead of the digital curve. For further information and opinions, please see the articles linked below. Take your internet security seriously!
Kevin Bong was formerly the Director of Corporate Security for Johnson Financial Group, and currently works as an Information Assurance Consultant for SynerComm, Inc. Kevin has a BS in Physics and Computer Science from Carroll University, an MS in Information Security Engineering from the SANS Institute, and has earned multiple certifications including PMP and GIAC GSE. Kevin is also an amateur astronomer, beekeeper, an author and instructor, and a pretty neat dad. Prior to Impulsec, Kevin worked a Penetration Testing “Drop Box” project similar to the Pwnie Express called the MiniPwner.
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