LG goes low tech

Although it may seem like everyone already has a cell phone, mobile manufacturers are realizing there's a whole new niche market for handsets designed specifically for kids. Of course, you may scoff at the notion that a preteen even needs a cell phone, but these basic models are designed just for making calls, while eschewing pricier features such as a camera. Styled after phones such as the and the Enfora TicTalk, the LG Migo VX1000 holds just four preprogrammed phone numbers, plus a dedicated button for 911 calls. Built-in parental controls mean that kids can call only the preprogrammed phone numbers, and the Migo will eventually support GPS-tracking ability for locating the phone. The compact, bright-green design is a bit quirky, but it's designed to appeal to the younger set. There are two antennas (one for GPS tracking and one for phone calls), a choice of wrist straps and backpack clips, and support for polyphonic ring tones. There's even a speakerphone for hands-free calling. The dual-band (CDMA 850/1900) LG Migo is available now through Verizon Wireless for $49.99 with service or $79.99 without.