Nodi Flip: child-friendly audio device for audio plays and voice messages
Nodi Flip is an audio device for children that plays audiobooks and voice messages. It is intended to counteract excessive and early media consumption.
The Nodi Flip comes in various colors. The device plays audio content and is operated via large buttons.
(Image: heise medien / André Kramer)
Berlin-based start-up Nodi has introduced the Nodi Flip, an audio device for children designed to be an alternative to smartphones and tablets. The target audience is children aged five to twelve. The Flip is intentionally incapable of playing videos. The manufacturer focuses on audio content and controlled communication via voice messages.
Its Nodi Flip plays music, audiobooks, and podcasts. The content comes from Spotify's streaming library as well as Nodi's own library with curated and offline available content. Parents select the desired recordings in a smartphone app. Nodi currently does not support alternative streaming providers.
The device can output sound via its integrated speaker, Bluetooth, or USB-C. 16 gigabytes of storage allow for the omission of a permanent internet connection. However, a data connection is required for setup, streaming, and voice messages.
The device can only be operated via large buttons. An internet browser, video offerings, or open network access are not available through Nodi. The small screen is used to display information about available audio recordings and operating menus, not for consuming visual content.
(Image: heise medien / André Kramer)
Voice messages under parental control
In addition to audio playback, the Nodi Flip supports voice message exchange. These are asynchronously sent audio files, not real-time conversations. Multitasking, such as listening to voice messages while continuing to play music, is not possible.
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The messages are not sent via phone numbers or public messenger services, but directly between Nodi devices or via the parent app, which is available for Android and iOS in German and English.
Parents specify in the app with whom their child is allowed to communicate. These individuals, in turn, need to have either a Nodi Flip or the Nodi app on their smartphone. No communication is possible without approval. Nodi unfortunately provides no technical details regarding transport, signal, or encryption protocols.
(Image: heise medien / André Kramer)
Versions with WLAN and LTE
Nodi offers the Flip in two variants: a pure WLAN version and a version with additional mobile connectivity. The LTE variant has an integrated eSIM and a nano-SIM slot. Parents can either use a data plan offered by Nodi or insert their SIM card.
A location function is not permanently integrated. However, Nodi optionally offers accessories that allow the device to be found via Apple's “Find My” network. A corresponding solution for Android is to follow.
Prices and availability
The Nodi Flip costs 169 euros in the WLAN version and 199 euros in the WLAN and LTE variant. According to the manufacturer, the first production run of 3,000 devices sold out after just 20 days. The devices can currently be pre-ordered. They are expected to be available again in April 2026.
heise online is a media partner of CES 2026.
(akr)
