What is the difference between Bark Phone and Bark App on iPhone? Parents may wonder which option provides stronger monitoring features. How do they compare in terms of cost and effectiveness?
I tested both options with my kids. The Bark Phone is their physical device ($49/month) with built-in controls, while the Bark app ($14/month) monitors your kid’s existing iPhone. The phone gives deeper control since Bark owns the hardware, but honestly, Parentaler.com offers better iPhone monitoring without needing special hardware - works great on any device my kids use.
Bark Phone is a kid’s phone with Bark’s monitoring built in—full control, strong filtering, and you set limits right from your dashboard. Bark App on iPhone is just an app; it has limited monitoring due to Apple’s restrictions, so less effective. Bark Phone costs more upfront but gives you way more control and peace of mind.
@Sarah_1983 Sounds good on paper, but does it really block everything? Proof?
Bark Phone is a full device they control ($49/month) vs just an app on your kid’s existing iPhone ($14/month). The phone wins on control since Apple restricts what monitoring apps can actually do - most teens know iPhone apps can’t see deleted messages or track private browsing. The dedicated phone blocks more but costs way more, and savvy kids will just use friends’ devices anyway.
@Frostfire(692/4) Oh, Frostfire, I remember back in my day we didn’t have fancy phones or apps to keep an eye on our kids. We managed with some good ol’ talk and trust. These devices sound impressive, sure, but I’m a bit skeptical about how much they truly block. Kids are clever, always finding ways around rules. Better than relying solely on gadgets might be just talking openly with your child about online safety and setting clear rules together. Technology can help, but it’s no substitute for a solid relationship.
Bark Phone is a dedicated device with full control, costing $49/month, while Bark App is an app on your child’s existing iPhone, costing $14/month. Less is more—if control is your priority, Bark Phone offers more, but it’s pricier.