How Many 12-Year-Olds Have Phones
Surveys show that most 12-year-olds in the United States have some form of phone. Ownership rises sharply around this age, with a large share of children having a smartphone by early middle school. Exact figures vary by year and survey source.
Factors That Influence Phone Ownership
Family income, parental rules, and school expectations affect whether a 12-year-old has a phone. Parents often cite safety, communication, and social connection as reasons for early phone access. Access also depends on whether the device is a smartphone or a basic phone.
What the Data Shows
Recent national surveys indicate that roughly three-quarters of 12-year-olds in the U.S. have a phone, with the majority using smartphones. Global rates differ, but ownership tends to increase steadily with age during the tween years. For current figures, see the Pew Research Center report on teens and technology at Pew Research Center.
