FAQ
What is Loup?
The Loup is a screenless, voice-based communication device designed specifically for kids aged 8–16. It is built for simple, safe connection with friends and family without the distractions and dangers of smartphones
Does Loup require a SIM card or a cell carrier?
No, Loup is SIM-Free and works over Wi-Fi. This eliminates the need for cell carrier contracts and recurring data plans.
How is Loup different from a regular cell phone or a “dumb phone"?
Loup is fundamentally a closed-loop system. Unlike regular cell phones or "dumb phones," which are open systems that require a SIM card and can receive calls from anyone, Loup offers:
App-less, voice-only interaction (dopamine loops).
SIM-Free operation over Wi-Fi , meaning no monthly data plans or recurring fees needed.
A Closed, Trusted Network where kids can only talk to contacts parents have approved. No strangers and no outside exposure.
Are there monthly fees or subscriptions?
Out of the box Loup gives you 10 contacts free—enough for most kids' actual needs (close friends + direct family).
If you're looking for more—unlimited contacts, call approved numbers, receive calls from approved numbers ("hi mom, no I haven't cleaned my room yet, but I will"), ability to page your kids for dinner—we have plans starting at $10/m, which undercuts many alternatives by at least half.
How do parents control the device? Who can they talk to?
Parents control the Loup through a companion app. This allows parents to:
Approve which contacts their child can communicate with
Set communication windows (e.g., no calls after 9pm, no calls during school hours)
Enable/disable the device as needed
It's designed to be Parent-Controlled, Not Surveillance-Oriented—focusing on guidance without tracking, spying, or overreach. Your child can only communicate with approved contacts who are part of the closed Loup system. This ensures no strangers or random calls.
Why don't I just get a Landline?
Honestly, landlines aren't a bad idea. But they come with limitations: recurring monthly fees (often $30–40/m), they're stuck in one place, and it remains hard to eliminate spam calls or set time limits.
Loup solves this by giving you a mobile device that works over WiFi—no data plan, no monthly carrier fees—while keeping the closed network safety of a landline. Your kid can take it anywhere there's WiFi, but only call approved contacts.
Can my child customize their Loup?
Yes! The back plate of the phone is removable and customizable.
Can I monitor my child's conversations or location?
Loup is designed for friendship, not monitoring.
It's built around spontaneous, peer-to-peer connections to help kids develop social confidence and form deeper emotional bonds.
There are so many well-crafted options that do provide monitoring, tracking, and oversight - which are worth checking out if that’s what you think you need!
What are the main physical features?
The device features a simple, clean, and intuitive design:
E-Ink Display for a clear contact list.
Touchscreen and Scroll Wheel to select contacts.
Microphone and Headphone Jack.
Volume and Power buttons.
USB-C Charging
Where will Loup be available?
We are shipping to USA, EU, UK and Canada.
You misspelled Loop
The name Loup (French for wolf) was chosen because wolves howl to stay in touch with their pack, reflecting the product's goal of safe, private connection. It also connects to the initial concept of a "closed LOOP" — a safe, trusted circle of friends.