FierceWireless today reports on a new study from research firm iGR, which finds that 50 to 70 percent of 12- to 14-year-olds have their own cell phones, the vast majority of those aged 15 to 17 years have them -- and "a significant percentage" of 5- to 9-year-olds have their own phones.

"The biggest finding in this study, compared to iGR's 2005 groundbreaking study, is that given the above usage and penetration data, the new battleground for handset OEMs and mobile operators in the teen/tween segment is now among children aged 10 and under," the press release states.

And while staying in touch is one reason why kids want cell phones, the "cool" factor and peer pressure are key. "Older children tended to shy away from handset designs they perceived as 'baby-ish' or geared more toward younger children," according to the firm.

"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," says Iain Gillott, founder and president of iGR.

More here from RCR Wireless News.