Over half of 12-to-14-year-olds now have their own mobile phones, and a "significant percentage" of children younger than 10 do as well, according to iGR's "Tweens" report.
The study also found that teens ages 15 and older were even more likely to have their own mobile phones.
Children mostly wanted mobile phones to stay in touch with friends. Staying in touch with parents was a secondary reason. Some children also said that peer pressure made them want mobile phones.
Since so many tweens now have mobile phones, OEMs may start targeting even younger users.
"This study shows that although there are still significant opportunities with the tween and teen segments, the target age groups are getting younger and younger," said Iain Gillott of iGR. "The new battleground for handset makers and mobile operators in the teen/tween segment is now among children aged 10 and under."