If you don't want the responsibility of a phone for your tween, or if you have concerns about monthly costs of a phone line, this provides an intermediate communication source. In our household, for example, we already have the max number of phone lines for our cell phone plan. Our tween daughter having a cell line isn't an option. However, the idea of iPod Touch for this tween is a great way to bring her close to the point of having a cell phone, without the monthly commitment of a new phone plan.
A wifi connection is necessary for utilizing the Facetime function of the iPod, making the use limited to home wireless networks, or to wireless hotspots out and about. More and more, these hotspots are available in public places, but they aren't everywhere, so Facetime will be restricted to use in compatible locations. It's not a full fledged phone, by any means, but is a step in that directions, for a tween.
iPod Touch provides a host of other functions, and is a much less expensive alternative to expensive tablet computers. Apps, touchscreen interaction, and the sleek appearance are all attractive features of the iPod Touch, from a Tween perspective. The iPod Touch functions not only as an iPod music player, but also as a limited use phone, camera and video recorder, calculator, calendar, ereader, web browser, entertainment center, and educational tool. You really do get a good variety of relevant tech tools for your tween, at a great price.
