Dedicated to creating a safer and more positive digital world and featuring an innovative AI “digital buddy” called Zed, Zown aims to empower tweens and teens with the skills, knowledge and confidence to thrive, not just survive, in a digital world.
Created by Sydney mum of four, Lauren Adlam, Zown is designed for 8-14 year olds and focuses on positivity and good vibes with daily positivity posts, goal setting, riddles, and trivia.
The Contributor’s Corner allows kids to share recommendations and acts of kindness, while the Discover section offers age-appropriate resources on topics like puberty, health, and friendships.
Zown’s digital buddy Zed integrates child-centered AI technology developed with AI experts to ensure age-appropriate, emotionally supportive interactions.
Through interactive experiences, Zed encourages positive behaviors like empathy, self-reflection, creativity and critical thinking, and is available for advice on everything from how to navigate tricky situations like friendships and bullying to how to complete their homework.
A healthy alternative to social media, Zown was designed with no clicks, likes or algorithms to get sucked into the vortex of social media.
It is fully moderated by adults and contributions are anonymous, so that bullying or predatory behaviour is avoided, providing peace of mind for parents and a safe space for exploration for its young users.
“I created Zown as a safe and positive alternative to social media, somewhere they can feel good about themselves, the world, and their place in it,” says Adlam.
“Our focus is on using the devices our kids have access to for good within a controlled and supportive setting, because like it or not they are growing up in a technology-driven society.”
“Through Zed they gain practical insights into how AI works and its potential applications in various aspects of life, as well as connection to support mental health challenges and feelings of isolation.” he said.
Zown’s innovative approach marks a significant step forward in creating a digital ecosystem tailored specifically for Generation Alpha.
By harnessing AI technology, Zown not only enhances the digital experience for young users but also sets a precedent for how future generations will interact with technology