[Ivel, KY / New York, NY – November 28th, 2025] – Appalachian Wireless is teaming up with Xplora, the leading company for children’s smartwatches, to bring families a safe, fun, and affordable way to stay connected. Starting this holiday season, the Xplora X6Play will be available in Appalachian Wireless stores across the region. Appalachian Wireless is an East Kentucky Network (EKN) telecommunications company.
The Xplora X6Play gives kids the freedom to explore while giving parents peace of mind. Designed specifically for children, the smartwatch offers voice calling and messaging, GPS tracking, safe zones, school mode, and activity-based rewards—all without internet access or social media. It’s a perfect first step into the digital world, balancing connectivity and safety.
"At Appalachian Wireless, our mission has always been to keep families connected in ways that are meaningful, safe, and responsible," said Darlene Howell, Customer Relations Director at Appalachian Wireless. "Being able to offer technology that helps parents stay connected to their children—while also respecting the sensitivity of devices in schools and young hands—makes what we do incredibly rewarding.
The Xplora X6Play gives families peace of mind without opening the door to social media or unrestricted internet use. Partnering with a company like Xplora, which shares our commitment to protecting and empowering families, makes this addition to our device lineup something we are truly proud of."
“Our partnership with Appalachian Wireless continues Xplora’s mission to help families stay safely connected,” said Gro E. Dyrnes, Xplora’s SVP for North America. “We’re proud to work with a carrier that shares our values and focus on local families.”
The award-winning X6Play comes in a classic black design and vibrant, customizable accessories, as well as with access to Xplora’s GoPlay Activity platform, which motivates kids to stay active through fun challenges and rewards.
Families can find the Xplora X6Play at Appalachian Wireless stores beginning this holiday season.
For more information, please contact:
Appalachian Wireless:
Kristin Mulchay (kmulcahy@ekn.com) - Marketing Manager
Xplora Technologies:
Gro Dyrnes (Gro.Dyrnes@xplora.com) - SVP North America
About East Kentucky Network, LLC D/B/A Appalachian Wireless
East Kentucky Network, LLC d/b/a Appalachian Wireless (EKN) was established in 1990 and is a primary regional wireless carrier serving twenty-five counties in eastern Kentucky and two counties in Virginia. EKN is headquartered in Ivel, Kentucky, and has approximately 200 employees, over 300 cell sites, and a 400-mile redundant fiber ring that connects with its five owners/members, each of whom has been a telecommunications service provider in the region for over 60 years. EKN's fiber network extends over 7,500 combined fiber miles, with transport capabilities to Chicago and Ashburn. Additionally, EKN maintains a 16,700 sq. ft state-of-the-art Tier III data center that provides reliable storage and security for critical data and systems.
About Xplora
Founded in Norway, Xplora is a global leader in smartwatches for children, dedicated to helping families stay safely connected. Available in 22 countries, Xplora’s award-winning products empower kids to explore their world while parents enjoy peace of mind.
