Prince William, Kate Middleton get unexpected help enforcing strict rule for George at elite school: experts

Eton College’s ban on smartphones for first-year pupils aligns with Prince William and Kate Middleton’s reported preference to limit their eldest son George’s access to the internet. The policy gives 13-year-olds basic phones for calls and texts, allowing essential contact while restricting gaming, browsing and social media.

Eton says the rule is intended to balance technology’s benefits and challenges, and reportedly tightened restrictions on school-issued iPads in September 2026 after parents raised concerns about gaming and browsing. William has previously said his children do not have phones and that he is particularly concerned about internet access; commentators quoted in the article said the school policy may reassure the family. Eton has about 1,350 pupils aged 13 to 18.