Christmas wish lists are bursting with the latest gadgets and gizmos. After the holidays, respect in the schoolyard often comes down to who got what for Christmas. From games and entertainment devices to clothing and accessories, children know exactly what they want. One product that continually appears at the top of Saint Nick’s wish list is a mobile phone. These devices, although originally targeted at adults, have branched out and developed a range specifically designed for the younger generation. When it comes to buying a phone for your child you need to consider what they’re going to use it for. Staying in contact with friends and playing games will be at the top of their to-do list.    Because of this, buying your child the latest high-end device is not necessarily the best option for them or your wallet. These types of phones are saturated in extras and features perfect for busy adults, but of minimal use to a socially-minded kids.The Samsung Galaxy Y forms a bridge between the world of feature phones and techy mobiles full of apps and web-based extras. This compact full-featured smartphone is extremely easy to use and is currently available from £7 per month from Carphone Warehouse. The Galaxy Y comes wrapped up with Samsung’s exclusive networking hub, a jam-packed selection of over 250,000 apps and a system that can support up to 32GB of extra internal memory. Powered by the Android 2.3 Gingerbread, this simple and sleek device gives its user the ability to expand the use of their phone through access to the Android Market. Downloading from the extensive list of apps and games means you can personalise this phone to its owner. Be a part of the Samsung Network Hub and keep all of your Facebook, Twitter and social updates organised in this integrated network. With the Hub’s help, all of your social updates and emails will appear on the home screen giving you instant notifications so you never miss a thing. Navigating your way around the device is pleasantly smooth with its intuitive touchscreen and recent software update to improve its receptiveness. Fingers of all sizes will find Galaxy Y easy to use from the outset and the socially-focused phone will keep you constantly connected with everybody in your contacts list.Share your best photos and your favourite videos with friends with the help of the two megapixel camera and speedy internet access. The automated focus keeps your photos clear, but for the best snaps you’ll need to be in optimal light conditions. The phone’s faster downloads over 3G or Wi-Fi means you can see and share videos faster.   Samsung has made a move on this device that clearly defines it as a youth targeted mobile. The brand giant has teamed up with Hello Kitty to produce a quirky and cute range of phone covers that make it stand out from the rest of the mid-range market. But the handset does still come in the more traditional black or silver designs for those wanting a more sophisticated look. 

The Samsung Galaxy Y is a perfectly formed mid-range phone for the socially savvy younger generation.